John A. Francese Brookfield, CT Res: 203-775-9399 Cell: 203-731-0721 voyager914@msn.

com

Back Office / Operations Management Executive Financial Services

Retail banking and product development leader with measurable success in driving operational quality and achieving high levels of performance from multiple branches and administrative facilities, resulting in SALES GROWTH and INCREASED SHAREHOLDER VALUE. Unique blend of experience across diverse operations including: Check Processing, ACH/EFT Settlement, ATM/Debit and Credit Card Processing, Imaging and Record Retention, and Compliance. Business Value / ROI: Proven ability to (1) Ensure consistent delivery of world-class service aligned with
client expectations and corporate objectives; (2) Drive process improvement and efficiency initiatives, operating with a keen eye toward strong internal controls and driving a client-first culture; (3) Develop and implement robust enterprise-wide Information Security standards and processes to ensure integrity, confidentiality and availability of network, computing resources, and data; (4) Build and develop teams with a strong commitment to attaining market advantage and leadership.

Experience, Key Contributions & Performance Milestones

USAlliance Federal Credit Union, Rye, NY 1991 to 2011
A major financial institution with over half a billion dollars in assets and 40,000+ members located across the globe; field of membership encompasses hundreds of employer groups, including founding employer group IBM, in the New York tri-state region and Massachusetts.

AVP Information Security Officer (2005-2011)

Highly visible, multi-faceted role responsible for determining enterprise security standards, encompassing both information systems and physical security systems. In addition, managed three back office areas including Checking, EFT, Card Services, Imaging and Records Retention. Provided leadership and direction to a team of 11 employees. Served as AVP Chairman of Information Security Committee. Reported directly to the CEO. Emphasis on: (i.) Coordinating and leading information security activities: IT risk management, IT security policies, IT security awareness, and IT security architecture; (ii.) Overseeing the clearing of debit/credit card transactions through electronic interchange systems and ensure that appropriate operating controls are maintained, (iii.) Consistently developing operational processes with infrastructure improvements designed to improve member service, increase efficiency and curtail staffing/servicing costs. Led Deployment of Multiple Technology Implementations and Upgrading Initiatives. Successfully led simultaneous conversions of an archaic core system platform (in place since Credit Unions inception in 1966) including Checking, EFT, Imaging/Record Retention and Payroll Processing, as well as Card Services infrastructure. Resulted in cost savings, enhanced efficiency and service reliability, improved customer satisfaction, and ultimately a boost in business competitiveness. Championed Merchandising Process to Maximize Retail Presence and Increase Product Sales. Initiated, developed, selected vendor and implemented in-branch and on-hold marketing messages leveraging multimedia technology. System has enabled the organization to maintain a consistent professional image throughout the branch network, while boosting awareness of the brand and banking products to customers. Established Disciplined Information Security and Business Continuity Solutions. Developed, maintained, and published corporate information security standards and protocols. Designed and introduced programs for user awareness and security compliance. Implemented, administered and tested Disaster Recovery and Business Continuation plan.

John A. Francese USAlliance Federal Credit Union continued

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Maximized Security Effectiveness. Maintained security controls to protect the facilities and cash on hand against criminal and fraudulent operations. Installed alarm and physical security systems in conjunction with vendor for New York and Massachusetts branches and facilities. Introduced confidential waste shredding policy for sensitive documents. Developed and Executed Strategy for EFT / ACH Operations. Submitted two-factor Dual Authentication protocols for home banking product to better secure access and verify user authenticity. Collaborated with vendor in the development and launch of a Remote Deposit Capture to maximize convenience, improve deposit availability, and reduce transportation costs and risks. Optimized Organizational Infrastructure and Compliance. Formulated and effectively implemented policies and procedures, internal controls and regulatory compliance risk assessment programs to ensure efficiency of all back-office administrative tasks.

Manager, Checking Services Department (1991-2005)

Oversaw day-to-day operations of the department, playing a significant role in the design and implementation of effective internal controls, financial and operational management and reporting, and compliance/risk management. Key focus on monitoring industry trends and developing timely and appropriate strategies, products and services to meet customer needs. Created 20+ Distinctive Checking Product Offerings for Customers. Developed and launched checking products/programs to create and maintain a competitive position in the market while driving profitable business growth. Successfully Incorporated Online Check Image Archiving Capabilities into Customer Offerings. Initiative improved customer service quality, while also creating new fee income opportunities, and providing USAlliance a distinctive competitive advantage. Achieved Check Clearing for the 21 Century Act Compliance (Check 21). Implemented check truncation processes to meet new check presentment regulations with Federal Reserve Banks of New York and Boston. Changes improved overall efficiency of check processing operations, reducing cycle time by over 75% and decreasing costs by 30%.
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Senior EFT Services Department Representative (1988-1991)

Directed the functions of EFT operations, including Automatic Clearing House (ACH) items, Automated Teller Machines (ATM) transactions, Debit Card, automatic payroll deposits, wire transfers, shared branch platform, and check returns to maintain maximum accuracy, efficiency and work flow. Key driver in launching Visa Debit Card products to customer base, including marketing strategies.

Earlier Career Education

Teller, USAlliance Federal Credit Union (1982-1988) BA, Communication Arts, Iona College, New Rochelle, NY A.O.S. Communication Arts, Elizabeth Seton College, Yonkers, NY Management specialization program, CUES Online University Numerous training and development programs, USAlliance Federal Credit Union B.A.S. Certification for Microsoft Access Notary Pubic Country of Westchester, NY

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