Key Takeaway
Stephen Jones, now Senior Vice President of Digital Development at VyStar Credit Union, stumbled into financial services after a chance encounter at a career fair. Initially focused on technology, he discovered the integral role of IT in finance. Inspired by high achievers, he applies their lessons to tackle technology challenges and stay ahead of industry trends. Since joining VyStar in 2022, he has streamlined digital processes while balancing immediate member needs with long-term strategies. His vision extends six years ahead, emphasizing a member-centric approach to ensure a seamless banking experience and a commitment to doing good for members and communities.
Stephen Jones never intended to work in financial services. While attending a technology career fair at the University of Missouri, a representative from a bank noticed his name tag and major as he was leaving.
“It was a bit of luck, but also someone being intentional,” Stephen reflects. “A person from a financial institution saw my name tag and major and asked if I had a few minutes to chat.”
This conversation led to an internship, followed by a post-graduate rotational program, and ultimately to his current position as Senior Vice President of Digital Development and Experience at VyStar Credit Union. The Jacksonville-based organization serves over one million members throughout Florida and Georgia.
“I didn’t realize that financial services are fundamentally built on technology,” Stephen explains. “I’ve uncovered an entire industry and world in IT that I didn’t know existed.”
Learning from excellence drives innovation
Stephen finds motivation in individuals who excel in their fields. As a fitness enthusiast, he studies how high performers achieve their results and applies those insights to his work.
“On a personal level, I’m inspired by anything or anyone exceptional at what they do or doing something innovative and new,” he shares. “I observe those who excel and think, ‘They’ve tapped into something remarkable.’”
This curiosity influences how Stephen tackles technology challenges at VyStar. He consistently researches industry advancements to spot trends before they become mainstream.
The technology sector’s continuous evolution captivates Stephen. “It’s always changing. You can never rest on your laurels in this industry, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover,” he states.
Instead of viewing technological changes as wasted effort, Stephen perceives them as progress. “There’s a touch of nostalgia you might want to cling to, but it’s reassuring to know that something better, faster, more efficient, or easier for users has emerged.”
Strategic planning balances present and future
Since joining VyStar in 2022, Stephen has streamlined everything from product conception to final delivery. His teams manage the entire digital landscape across the credit union’s technology platforms.
Stephen balances immediate member needs with long-term competitive strategy, ensuring that current technology investments lay the groundwork for future capabilities.
His planning horizon extends six years into the future while addressing immediate needs. “How are we planning for the next six months, and how are we preparing for the next six years?” he asks. “If we’re not doing something now that will serve as the right foundation or stepping stone to get us there, we probably need to reassess our priorities.”
This approach embodies VyStar’s member-centric philosophy. Members deserve a consistent, seamless experience that allows them to bank with ease and confidence.
“Our purpose is to do good,” Stephen asserts. “It’s a straightforward concept: we aim to do good for our members, good in the communities we serve, and good in everything we do.”
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