Q&A with CEO Brandon Haberer
The Haberers – Lauren, Brandon, Kara and Caroline pose with their family dogs Oliver and Heidi on their family’s land.
Brandon is no stranger to cooperative structure and Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ culture. He’s been with Farm Credit since 2008 and has seen the association through its highs and lows. So, what’s next for Farm Credit? Brandon shares his vision and goals as the new President and CEO, why cooperatives are important and how his family has supported him as he’s moved into his new role. What type of leadership style do you follow? The leadership style I feel best explains me is often called “servant-style” or “participative” leadership. It’s a leadership style that invokes innovation and welcomes open communication and feedback. Early on in my career, the first bank president I worked for modeled these leadership characteristics. He gave me challenging responsibilities that I’ve carried throughout my career. I strive to do the same thing – encourage and empower others to do their job. What do you hope to accomplish in your first year as CEO?
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Within these first few months, I’ve made it a goal to visit each of our 23 branch offices in person. I want the employees to know they can reach out and share ideas, thoughts or concerns with me at any time. My other primary goal this year is to fix our technology growing pains. We have new software that could be doing more for us. I’m working with our senior management team to provide employees with needed training and the tools and resources we need to be efficient.
What do you value most about Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ culture? I value our “put others before yourself” mentality. Whether it’s in regards to membership, another employee or a different department, employees at all levels are willing to stop what they’re doing to help others. You often hear the phrase Farm Credit family. Family culture is evident when it comes to big life events. Whether it’s a wedding or a funeral, our staff turns out in masses to support each other. Why do you think cooperatives are important? Cooperatives have a unique business model where the members, directors and employees all align for the same mission and goals. It’s not focused on how much revenue you can generate like you see in corporations. Instead, it’s truly service oriented. As a cooperative, we’re focused on how to better serve our members and our communities. When you put that first, you’re guaranteed to succeed. 100+ years of the Farm Credit System has proven that.
