Member Spotlight: Annette Gould

CUNA HR/TD Council
November 4, 2010 | COMMENTS

Annette Gould is executive assistant/HR coordinator for TruChoice Federal Credit Union in Portland, Maine. A self-proclaimed “Mainer through and through,” Annette joined the credit union industry in 1986, working in the accounting department for Maine’s credit union league. She has been with TruChoice for over ten years, starting as administrative assistant and moving through several job titles to her current position of HR coordinator.

Biggest challenge

Competition and low loan demand. As far as HR and staffing, not many challenges; we have a great group of people and very low turnover.

Best advice

Be up-front and honest with others.

Greatest Council benefit

The sharing of ideas—it’s a help-line where someone is always there with advice.

Best part of my job

Hopefully making a positive impact on someone's day.

Hardest part of my job

Addressing the tough issues, one on one, that come up at times.

Success story

Over the last few years we have appointed teams credit union-wide to work on various projects that needed to be done to meet our credit union goals. By being included in the process, it’s been 100% staff buy-in and we've been able to accomplish a lot, make improvements in our processes and meeting the goals set by senior management.

Biggest misconception people have about my job

I’m not sure staff completely understand what I do, because much of it is behind the scenes and confidential, whether I'm wearing my EA or HR hat.

Hobbies and interests

Sewing, knitting, gardening, traveling, cryptoquips, crossword puzzles, spending time with grandkids.

Life goal not yet accomplished

To retire and travel with my husband.

Favorite quote

“Since I put reality on a back burner my days are jam-packed and fun-filled" (Lily "Trudy" Tomlin).

How I would explain the credit union difference to a potential new member

Credit unions will take the extra step to help a member. It's their way of doing business—period.