Some of the most successful credit union ventures through the years have come from credit unions willing to collaborate for the greater good. But the press of daily operations, budget constraints and logistical considerations often leave little time to plan opportunities that lend themselves to collaboration. The Rochdale Group, Inc. was created to fill this vital need. By combining its staff’s technical expertise and extensive knowledge of the credit union industry, The Rochdale Group brings together credit unions and business partners to achieve the economies of scale needed to thrive in a fast-changing, competitive environment.

The Rochdale Group takes its name from the early origins of cooperatives. In 1844, workers banded together to open a cooperative grocery store in the community of Rochdale (near Manchester, England). That group eventually became “The Rochdale Equitable Society of Pioneers,” which required the purchase of at least one share (costing one pound) to become a member. The Society used its collective share to buy discounted goods for resale to members at below-market prices. The Society’s model was replicated and spread throughout Europe, setting the stage for a cooperative banking system to emerge in Germany in the mid-1880’s.

As our roots suggest, collaboration is, or ought to be, a critical component of today’s credit union strategy. While credit unions account for more than $670 billion in assets, that figure represents only six percent of banks’ total assets. And with shrinking margins, growing member demands, and the need for significant investments in technology, it is becoming ever more difficult for credit unions to compete with large, multi-national banks. To succeed, credit unions must improve their operating efficiencies – efficiencies that often can be gained by working with other credit unions.

Through the acquisition of Counter Intelligence Associates (CIA) and in partnership with credit union management consultant, George Towle, formerly of the ProCon Group, The Rochdale Group & CIA provides premier consulting services. Counter Intelligence Associates is unique from other financial services consulting firms.

Dan Kampen President & CEO/Partner Dan founded The Rochdale Group, Inc., which provides management and financial consulting services; vendor and product management; and facilitation of collaborative projects among credit unions in January of 2006. Dan’s financial services career spans 20+ years serving the financial services industry in various capacities. *click here for Dan’s full bio

George Towle Partner George brings a wealth of experience in facilitation and developing educational, training and professional development programs to The Rochdale Group. He is a frequent speaker at regional and national conferences and seminars. George joined The Rochdale Group, Inc. in January 2006. George’s 28 years of credit union experience lends to his perspective on credit union trends and board governance. *click here for George’s full bio

Tony Ferris Partner Tony has devoted 12 years to leadership and business development positions within the financial services community. Tony’s primary areas of expertise include leadership and organizational development, sales and negotiation tactics, strategic planning, merger planning, regulatory compliance and project management.    Tony’s broad ranging skills have been developed through the diversity and depth of leadership positions he has held over his career. This experience has equipped Tony with not only industry-related technical skills, but has provided a strategic vantage point with which to address organizational issues and development activities. *click here for Tony’s full bio

Joe Karlin Principal Joe Karlin serves the capital market needs of credit unions. This includes efforts related to member business loans, student lending, and consumer lending. Joe brings experience in various structures for delivery of those opportunities, including loan participations, syndicates and syndications, and on-balance sheet solutions. In addition to his capital markets focus, Joe draws on his experience and expertise to direct work on merger, executive management, and accounting/finance issues. *click here for Joe’s full bio