Craig and Mark talk about the old days of commercial lending in credit unions and how the dynamics between CUSO and CU’s have changed over the years. They also review the best practices in utilizing third parties to assist your lending operations. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:24] Mark discusses what MBFS does and how it can assist credit unions.
• [2:17] Craig describes his background and professional history. 
• [3:28] Discussion of the history of CUSOs and how they have developed over the years.
• [6:04] Credit Unions require specialized guidance across various domains, relying on individuals who excel in specific areas rather than expecting one person to have expertise in all areas. 
• [8:20] Benefits of having relationship managers and problems that arise when you don’t. 
• [11:13] The advantage of third-party oversight who goes in and out when needed is that they can assist a credit union better and faster in reaching goals.
• [13:57] Craig shares the history of guiding credit unions and members through difficult economic years to the advantage of both parties and how annual reviews can prevent issues. 
• [19:36] How a CUSO builds scale and neutrality, why examining policies once in a while is helpful and reaching out for non-judgmental help is wise.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• CUSOs are specialized and have experts in many different areas that can speak specifically to originations, credit, closing of loans, portfolio management, SBA loans, etc., to ensure credit union partners receive the expertise necessary for the specific portion of their credit union that needs the assistance.
• It's hard to build relationships, but if you have worked with a borrower frequently, you know they will bring you a quality loan and have the financial wherewithal to back up their requests. If it's an SBA loan, you know they understand the intricacies of the paperwork involved. 
• Don't be embarrassed if you need some temporary help. Loans can go sideways. There is help available, and it is nonjudgmental. 

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter Website

Mark Ritter LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: 

Craig Page is the Chief Revenue Officer at MBFS. He joined MBFS after a long career of successfully leading CUSOs and as an executive in commercial real estate financing.