Branch Operations Manager Trainee

Job Description:

Primary Function:

The Branch Operations Manager Training Program is a structured six-month development program designed to prepare high-potential leaders for future Branch Operations Manager roles within VACU.

Participants gain hands-on experience across branch operations, sales leadership, member service, compliance, and team development while supporting multiple branch locations within their assigned region. In partnership with Branch Managers, Area Managers, and operational leaders, participants develop the leadership capabilities required to successfully manage a branch.

During the program, participants serve as a flexible leadership resource—supporting operational needs, coaching employees, assisting with staffing gaps, and enhancing the member experience—while building proficiency in core functions including cash handling, membership services, account opening, and lending support.

Upon successful completion, participants will be placed into a Branch Operations Manager role as positions become available.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership Development

• Demonstrate alignment with VACU’s Strategic Plan and understand how individual contributions drive organizational success

• Participate in a structured leadership development program focused on operational excellence and team leadership

• Develop and apply effective coaching, performance management, and decision-making practices

• Partner with Area Managers and Human Resources on performance management and employee development, including disciplinary actions when necessary

• Support team development through coaching, career progression conversations, and reinforcing a member-first mindset

• Monitor and influence performance metrics including sales, service, productivity, overtime, and fee management

• Ensure branch and individual goals are consistently achieved

• Regularly review member feedback and survey results to drive employee development and retention strategies

• Demonstrate sound judgment and decision-making aligned with VACU, branch, and member interests

• Build the capability to lead teams effectively through change, growth, and operational challenges

Branch Operations

• Support daily branch operations to ensure consistency, efficiency, and adherence to policies and procedures

• Assist with audits, operational controls, risk management, and security practices

• Monitor and reinforce cash handling procedures, teller operations, and balancing standards

Member Experience & Sales

• Deliver exceptional, relationship-based member service through needs-based conversations

• Support branch growth through deposit, lending, and referral activities

• Coach team members to identify member needs and recommend appropriate solutions

• Contribute to achieving production, service, and growth goals

Team Support & Coaching

• Provide guidance to frontline employees to reinforce service standards and operational expectations

• Support onboarding and training of new employees

• Participate in coaching conversations and team development initiatives

• Promote a positive, collaborative, and member-focused culture

Organizational

• Other duties as assigned.

• Comply with all published enterprise level policies and procedures including, but not limited to, Risk Management policies.

• Complete all required, ongoing enterprise level training including, but not limited to BSA, OFAC, and Information Security.

• Report all Risk Management Policy violations in accordance with policy.

• This job requires the ability to sit and stand for long periods of time.

• This job requires infrequent lifting or carrying of objects up to 10 pounds.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field (or equivalent experience) preferred

• 2–4 years of experience in banking, financial services, or leadership roles

• Strong understanding of branch operations, member service, and sales practices

• Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate employees

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to adapt quickly and perform effectively across multiple environments

• Ability to travel within the assigned region