In this episode of The CUInsight Network, Allied's CEO Pete Hilger shares his journey from aspiring entrepreneur to leading a company with a $3 billion annual impact on the credit union industry. He reflects on lessons learned from building businesses, the importance of trust and transparency in partnerships, and Allied’s role in supporting credit unions with growth, risk management, and member solutions. The conversation also touches on leadership, gratitude, and the balance between professional and personal life.
In this episode:
[00:52] – Pete wanted to be an entrepreneur growing up.
[01:36] – Pete co-founded a data destruction company and then joined Allied Solutions.
[04:26] – Pete started as a service rep and rose to CEO of Allied after Securian’s acquisition.
[06:14] – Allied Solutions generates over $3 billion yearly for clients through diverse financial products and services.
[08:55] – With new approaches to asset recovery, Allied aims to bring back over $500 million a year by 2026.
[12:02] – Pete explains how COVID accelerated digital innovation.
[14:15] – Pete highlights the importance of transparency and trust, insisting on full disclosure with partners and clients.
[16:47] – Allied succeeds by balancing its investment in people with fintech, data, and flexible tech platforms.
[19:14] – Hear about Pete’s admiration for Lt. Col. Dan Rooney and also his mom.
[21:25] – Pete splurges on his wife’s happiness and enjoys comfortable travel.
[23:00] – Pete recommends the book Tools of Titans.
[23:58] – What are Pete’s views on work-life balance?
[26:18] – Pete starts each day with gratitude, positivity, teamwork, and the simple power of a smile.