Member Spotlight: Janet Rombi

CMBDC
June 1, 2010 | COMMENTS

Janet Rombi is assistant vice president of business development for American First Credit Union in La Habra, California. Born in Calgary, Alberta, Janet's career path did not start with the financial industry. As an art major, her first “real” job was art director for an advertising agency. As she raised her two daughters she joined a credit union part-time, which became a turning point in her career. She worked there for eight years, working her way up from teller to business development representative and thriving in the credit union culture.

“One of my proudest moments was being chosen business leader of the year and the city of Santa Ana proclaimed January 4th as Janet Rombi Day,” she says. Janet later left to work for the Department of Education on a grant program and later for the Orange County Register, where she was a fundraiser for its education program.

“However, I missed the credit union family and joined American First six years ago,” Janet says. She started as business development manager and two years ago was promoted to assistant vice president. She has a staff of five employees.

Biggest challenge

Our challenge today is bringing in new membership and retaining them. We are always seeking to increase product usage as well.

Best advice

Be patient and persistent. I know that sounds contradictory, but timing is everything. I never give up on something I want to accomplish. Be passionate about your job and what your credit union

has to offer. Last and not least, look for something good in everyone you meet.

Great benefit of Council membership

I LOVE the ideas that we share with each other. The fact that we are willing to do so is pretty unusual and you wouldn't see this in any other industry, especially amongst bankers!

Best part of my job

The people I get to meet and the creativity my credit union allows me to exercise. We are fostering an environment of innovation and it is very exciting to be able to do new things and have the support of my executive team.

Hardest part of my job

Managing strong people who are very competitive. Sometimes those personality traits within a department can hurt morale. I try to keep everyone motivated and rewarded.

Success story

We have placed a big emphasis on education and financial literacy with all our members. This past year we teamed up with CVS Pharmacy to educate employees about home ownership and money management. Because of our success with this program, CVS has asked us to become their credit union of choice. This is a huge achievement because they have over 450,000 employees nationwide.

Biggest misconception about my job

That we are always having fun and doing cool things. It is actually more like being a performer who can't miss a beat.

Hobbies and interests

Travel—I love Europe and have explored Italy, France, and England. Spain and Ireland are next. I also love to sew and design costumes. I am a portrait artist as well, but don't have much time to paint.

Recent book

The Kite Runner —amazing and a tear-jerker.

Life goal not yet accomplished

Spending a week in a camp outside Madrid for Spanish business people to share conversation, dining, and experiences.

Something that always makes me laugh

Watching my five cats play and listening to my boyfriend's corny blonde jokes.

Favorite music

Jesse Colin Young, John Legend, John Mayer, Keith Urban, Andrea Bocelli, Sade, the Foofighters, the Beatles.

If I could spend a day with anyone it would be . . .

Oprah Winfrey, because I admire her and she wouldn't be intimidating. I think I could talk to her about anything. She has such a generous and loving spirit and is so real and open.

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

I get excited about credit unions! The first thing I explain is what the "experience" is like when you come in the door. There are people smiling and happy to see you. Credit union people sincerely care about their members. We give you our undivided attention and find ways to help you plan and utilize your assets to your advantage. You will feel like you are not alone to figure it out. It is the same whether you are opening a savings for your child or applying for a real estate loan. American First Credit Union is present on a regular basis at your company. We visit often, stay in touch monthly, and surprise you with special little treats. Our goal is to help educate your employees so they are more comfortable in their lifestyle. If your employees are financially stable, they will perform more productively.