Strategic Innovation: How EPCOR is Enhancing Member Value in the Evolving Payments Industry
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the payments industry, the role of associations like EPCOR has never been more crucial. Brandie Thacker, President and CEO of EPCOR, is leading the charge to ensure that the nearly 1,800 member organizations the association serves are not just keeping pace but thriving in this dynamic environment. Just weeks into this new role, she is hitting the ground running. Drawing from her extensive background in communications and member services, Brandie brings a unique perspective to her leadership role, focusing on innovative strategies that leverage technology, data-driven insights and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Embracing Technological Advancements
One of the cornerstones of EPCOR’s strategy under Brandie’s leadership is the adoption of cutting-edge technology to better serve its members. The payments industry is in the midst of a seismic shift towards digital, contactless, and real-time payments, which has raised the bar for customer and member expectations. EPCOR is responding to these changes by implementing a new Association Management System (AMS) that will allow for more effective data mining and analysis. This upgrade is designed to give EPCOR a clearer picture of its members’ needs, enabling the association to deliver more targeted and valuable products and services.
In addition to the new AMS, EPCOR is exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to further streamline member interactions. AI can provide 24/7 support for routine inquiries, freeing up EPCOR’s staff to focus on more complex member needs and strategic initiatives. This technological integration will not only improve efficiency but also enhance the overall member experience, ensuring that EPCOR remains a vital resource for its members as they navigate the complexities of the modern payments landscape.
Data-Driven Member Insights
At the heart of EPCOR’s strategy is a commitment to being data-driven. Brandie understands that to stay relevant and provide value to members, the association must continually adapt to changing industry conditions. This means using data not only to understand what members need today but also to anticipate what they will need tomorrow.
“We’re focusing on data-driven insights to ensure we’re meeting our members’ evolving needs,” Brandie explains. “By leveraging technology and analytics, we can better understand the challenges our members are facing and develop solutions that address those challenges head-on.”
This approach allows EPCOR to prioritize initiatives that deliver the most value. Rather than spreading resources too thin across numerous projects, Brandie advocates for a focused strategy, concentrating on three key initiatives at a time. This ensures that each initiative receives the attention and resources necessary to succeed, ultimately delivering more impactful results for members.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Brandie is also a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within EPCOR. She believes that fostering an inclusive environment is not just the right thing to do but is also essential for innovation and member satisfaction. Under her leadership, EPCOR is expanding its DEI initiatives, with a focus on ensuring that every voice within the organization is heard, valued and reflected in the services provided to members.
“Our DEI initiatives are about more than just ticking a box,” Brandie notes. “We want to create an environment where all staff and members feel encouraged and invited to share their ideas and perspectives. This inclusivity strengthens our organization and enhances the value we deliver to our members.”
One of the ways EPCOR is advancing its DEI goals is through leadership development and training programs that emphasize cultural competency and inclusivity. Brandie is also exploring ways to ensure that technology solutions, such as AI tools and the new AMS, are accessible and inclusive for all members.
Looking Ahead
As EPCOR continues to evolve under Brandie’s leadership, the focus remains firmly on enhancing member value through strategic innovation. By embracing technological advancements, leveraging data-driven insights and fostering a culture of inclusivity, EPCOR is well-positioned to meet the challenges of the payments industry head-on.
The future is bright for EPCOR, and Brandie is committed to ensuring that the association not only adapts to the changes in the industry but also leads the way in driving innovation and excellence. As the payments industry continues to transform, EPCOR’s members can be confident that their association is working tirelessly to support their success.
In a rapidly changing world, EPCOR’s commitment to its members remains steadfast, ensuring that they have the tools, resources and support they need to thrive.
