Tom honoured for lifetime of work with credit union

Tom Allen’s time at North Midlands Credit Union “has been defined by integrity, innovation, and a deep-rooted belief in the co-operative ethos”, according to colleagues who nominated him for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the All Ireland CU Awards.

Tom was awarded the honour at the event in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin on Saturday week last, Saturday October 18.

The staff and board of North Midlands Credit Union had nominated Tom for the Lifetime Achievement Award because, in a career of more than 27 years, he has “demonstrated unwavering commitment, leadership, and service to both the credit union movement and the communities he has tirelessly supported; enriching the communities of Westmeath, Longford and more recently Cavan through financial inclusion, vision, and service”.

They said that under Tom’s leadership, the Credit Union has grown in size and in purpose, “extending financial services to those most in need, while maintaining the highest standards of governance and member care”.

“What began as a single branch in Mullingar has, through his strategic direction and tireless efforts, expanded to a network of seven branches serving members across the common bond of Westmeath, Longford and Cavan. This remarkable development reflects not only operational growth but Tom’s deep commitment to reaching more people with ethical, community-based financial services.”

They state in their nomination, that Tom’s legacy is not seen in metrics, but in lives improved, communities strengthened, and futures made brighter.

“His ability to combine strategic leadership, visionary thinking, and genuine care for others make him not just a manager, but a true steward of the Credit Union movement and an inspiration to all who have worked alongside him. As he approaches retirement, this nomination stands as a testament to a career defined by purpose, passion, and extraordinary service. Tom Allen is the embodiment of what a lifetime achievement award represents. We cannot think of a more deserving recipient.”

The views of the staff and board were backed up by others who have worked with or dealt with Tom, including, David Malone, chief executive officer, Irish League of Credit Unions, and Mullingar Fleadh Executive Committee 2022/2023 members, Joe Connaire, Willie Penrose and Colette Glynn.

The latter stated: “The Fleadh Executive Committee wishes to endorse Tom Allen for his positive contribution towards making the Fleadh happen in Mullingar over the two-year period. Not alone did he help ensure the Credit Union become the main financial contributor and sponsor of the Fleadh, he ensured we could utilise the physical facilities to enable first aid services be based out of the offices in a central location in the town.

“Financial facilities were also provided and all the staff were involved to various degrees in facilitating the success of the Fleadh. Tom was the first port of call to help us resolve various logistical problems that arose and he exhibited a tremendous can-do attitude that was inspirational. Likewise, he opened doors for the executive to various businesses and entrepreneurs and openly encouraged them to lend their support, which was crucial and overall played a pivotal role in the success of the Fleadh in Mullingar.

“We are delighted to support Tom for positive consideration for a lifetime achievement award. It is well deserved, for his drive and commitment in his role as manager of an ever expanding Credit Union which he has led for a long number of years, but also for his leadership and commitment to the community ethos and excellence of the credit union movement. He knows and values the principle of volunteerism and his enthusiastic support for us in the Fleadh Executive Committee clearly reflected the depth and sincerity of that leadership and commitment.”

Derek Smith, assistant manager, at North Midlands Credit Union, said the whole team there are delighted that Tom has received the award.

Pointing out that Tom has more than 27 years of service with the credit union (formerly Mullingar CU), Derek said he had overseen great growth here and contributed hugely to the movement nationally. “Tom been instrumental in that, while at all times maintaining the community focus and the credit union ethos,” said Derek, “so we think it’s truly fitting that he has got the Lifetime Achievement Award, and we’re delighted for him.

“It’s recognition for all he has done. He has represented North Midlands nationally through a lot of collaborative movements that have enhanced our processes and our products, and that has helped the credit union movement in general.

“Tom is not solely focused on the success of his own Credit Union; he consistently demonstrates a genuine commitment to the wellbeing and development of Credit Unions across the country and to the strength of the entire movement.”