Key Takeaway
Stephen Jones, now Senior Vice President of Digital Development at VyStar Credit Union, stumbled into financial services after a chance conversation at a career fair. Initially focused on technology, he discovered the industry’s reliance on IT. Inspired by high achievers, he applies their lessons to his work, constantly researching trends to stay ahead. Since joining VyStar in 2022, he has streamlined the digital landscape, balancing immediate member needs with long-term goals. His strategic planning looks six years ahead, ensuring current investments lay a solid foundation for future capabilities, all while maintaining a member-centric focus aimed at doing good for the community.
Stephen Jones never intended to pursue a career 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 stroke of luck, but also a matter of someone being proactive,” Stephen explains. “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 institution serves over one million members across Florida and Georgia.
“I didn’t realize that financial services are fundamentally driven by technology,” Stephen shares. “I’ve uncovered an entire industry and realm that I was previously unaware of within IT.”
Learning from excellence drives innovation
Stephen finds motivation in individuals who excel in their respective fields. As a fitness enthusiast, he studies how high achievers attain 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 pioneering something innovative,” he states. “I observe those who excel and think, ‘They’ve tapped into something extraordinary.’”
This curiosity influences how Stephen tackles technology challenges at VyStar. He continually researches industry advancements to spot trends before they become mainstream.
The ever-changing nature of the technology sector captivates Stephen. “It’s in a constant state of evolution. You can never rest on your laurels in this industry, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover,” he remarks.
Instead of viewing technological changes as unnecessary efforts, Stephen perceives them as progress. “There’s a bit of nostalgia you might want to cling to, but it’s reassuring to know that something better, faster, more efficient, or user-friendly 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 extends six years into the future while addressing current demands. “How are we preparing for the next six months, and how are we planning for the next six years?” he asks. “If we’re not taking steps now that will serve as the right foundation or stepping stone to get us there, we likely 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 mission is to do good,” Stephen emphasizes. “It’s a straightforward concept: we aim to do good for our members, good in the communities we serve, and good in everything we undertake.”
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