Canadian Credit Union Association

135 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 voice at the federal and provincial government levels. In the case of regulations, we advocate on behalf of credit unions and ensure policymakers clearly understand their needs,” Guthrie says. “The second area the CCUA focuses on is awareness and outreach. We spend much time helping Canadians understand the definition of a credit union, its values, how they operate, how they are distinct, and how they can align their values with those of the credit union. “The third area of focus is education. The CCUA helps facilitate education with member credit unions. We offer programs to help train staff, directors, and the public. In addition, we run online webinars and annual conferences to share knowledge and keep credit union employees and management up to date on marketplace trends like open banking, digitization, and cybersecurity.” In executing its education mandate, the CCUA focuses on thought leadership and delivering core disciplines and competencies. This approach helps provide the foundational knowledge credit unions need to operate efficiently and securely. The CCUA is currently preparing to co-host the 2023 World Credit Union Conference in collaboration with the World Council of Credit Unions. Slated to be held in Vancouver from July 23-26, 2023, the conference will welcome over 2,500 credit union delegates from around the world, including Canada. As the COVID pandemic declines, credit unions are working hard to prepare members for the possibility of a recession. Rising inflation and interest rates are part of the agenda. As Guthrie explains, the CCUA is right at the heart of ensuring credit union members have the correct information and support to weather the challenging financial climate. “Credit unions are reaching out to their members and discussing changes to the financial economy. One of the areas they are discussing is the impact of a variable-rate mortgage. For Jeff Guthrie, President and CEO