While some kids were out playing, John Holt was watching the stock market reports. His piggy bank grew, along with his passion for finance. Today, he boasts a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Western New England College and is currently President and CEO of Nutmeg Federal Credit Union, celebrating 75 years of service this year. “CABO is thrilled to have Nutmeg as one of our Outreach Event Sponsors, and it is obvious how committed John and his team are to diversity and inclusion,” offers CABO Executive Director Jenn Tracz. “We had a great time at the event they hosted on June 29th at their Rocky Hill location.” Recently, I had the chance to make a withdrawal on some of his financial and philosophical wisdom.
Why is working with CABO and LGBT relationship building so important to you and Nutmeg?
Because I believe that everyone regardless of belief, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. should feel welcome and comfortable working with any business or the people that work for a business…. That’s why Nutmeg State Federal is “the one for everyone”.
It’s very much a part of your personal philosophy in life…
Look, I never judge anyone… We are all created differently and we all serve a purpose in life. My purpose both personally and professionally is to help as many people as I can and allow people to be themselves and feel good about what they do. My job at Nutmeg is to welcome people through our doors and find solutions for their banking needs.
How does it feel knowing that you are an important ally in the LGBT community?
It feels great! Again, I want everyone to know that we welcome all walks of life into this credit union. I want your business and I want you to feel good about Nutmeg.
The success of Nutmeg is impressive...what is the secret behind it?
You have to think outside of the box, be flexible, and listen to what people want. In addition, having the right employees in the right places creates a culture that is welcoming to the public.
You have a very impressive resume....what career accomplishment are you most proud of?
(John comes from a $500 million asset size credit union in Florida where he served as Executive Vice President, where he had full responsibility overseeing eleven branch offices, a call center, marketing, training, corporate services, lending and business development.)
I’m proud of many of the things I have done at past employers but so far I’m most proud of what I’ve done at Nutmeg in such a short period of time. We’ve introduced several new products and services and expanded our accessibility to our members. It couldn’t be a better time to be part of Nutmeg State Federal Credit Union!
Tell us about your childhood and your interests?
I was always interested in the financial services industry. As a kid, I faithfully watched the stock market. I love the idea of consulting people and finding ways to better manage their money. As a hobby, I love running when it’s warm out!
What is something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m not your traditional banker. I like doing things that are different and unique. Some may say that “I push the envelope” but that’s OK. To some degree, businesses are conservative here in CT especially bankers. Although I know money is serious business, you’ll find that I’m more open-minded and approachable than most. I love people.
Anything else you'd like to say?
Have you opened your account yet?
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Nutmeg Federal Credit Union (www.nutmegstatefcu.org) serves individuals who live, work, worship or volunteer in Hartford, Middlesex, and Tolland counties.
Would you like to be featured in a CABOgraphy? Email Dan Weaver at dan@barmontproductions.com. Dan and his husband, Lee, own Barmont Productions, a full service video production company that produces fundraising, corporate, and commercial videos.
