Five months. That’s how long writers walked the picket line in front of Hollywood studios.
When the Writers Guild of America, The Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists went on strike to demand better pay for their work and to keep AI out of the writer’s room, many faced financial hardship.
First Entertainment Credit Union didn’t hesitate to help out.
The credit union — one that stands out for its specialization in the entertainment industry — provided $7 million in financial assistance to help support writers during the difficult time. The company even provided meals to those on the picket line.
“Our support has always and will always be hyperfocused on our entertainment community,” said Stephen Owen, president and chief executive officer of First Entertainment Credit Union, in a press release.
It’s this commitment to community and values that makes the company stand out for employees, too.
When Carrie-Anne Quinn, a real estate processing and underwriting manager, decided to return First Entertainment Credit Union to return to the company after leaving a year prior, it was not only because of the support from a communicative manager, but also the culture.
“It was the values upheld by everyone here — above all else, put the member first — that made it easy to say ‘yes,’” said Quinn.
Built In Los Angeles spoke with Quinn about what this communication and value-driven work looked like for her boomerang journey.
First Entertainment Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution that supports creators of entertainment.
What drew you back to First Entertainment Credit Union?
When I first decided to explore other opportunities outside of First Entertainment, it was primarily due to the growth opportunities for the real estate career path I had chosen at that particular time. I had an honest discussion with my former manager and was met with support to explore further growth elsewhere.
After nearly one and a half years away from First Entertainment, the VP reached out to me about a potential leadership position in the real estate department, and I jumped at the opportunity to return to First Entertainment. I have a wonderful team and truly enjoy coming to work.
Since returning, what are you most excited to have back in your professional life?
First Entertainment provides the opportunity for me to work with some very talented people that respect each other and encourage honest conversations. I am most excited by the continuous level of support I receive from my current VP of commercial and residential real estate lending.
In my position, I feel encouraged to freely share the ideas and strategies I have for my team with my manager. I’ve worked very hard to pursue, and achieve, continued growth opportunities throughout my career.
Being back at First Entertainment has provided me with unparalleled support for my continuous development, from both my team and leaders, which has made this journey so fun and exciting.
“Being back at First Entertainment has provided me with unparalleled support for my continuous development, from both my team and leaders, which has made this journey so fun and exciting.”
What advice would you offer to leaders who wish to create the type of workplace that draws former employees back?
I can’t speak to what will work for others, but for me, the ability to have honest dialogue with my leader about my career path, and have it be met with a genuine interest for my personal and professional development was, and is, a priceless benefit.
Not all career paths are linear; in fact, most are not. In my case, leaving First Entertainment to work for another credit union afforded me the chance to gain valuable outside experience in ways that were instrumental to my continued advancement. It actually helped me to become a more well-rounded teammate and leader.
What qualities define the work environment at First Entertainment?
The way in which First Entertainment supported my decision to leave, and thereafter invited me back, demonstrated their pure and sincere regard for me personally, not just the institution. As a leader, my goal is to support my team in the same way I was supported: knowing that what is best for an employee may not always be staying where they are. I strive to genuinely value my teammates’ development, wherever that may lead them.
A great place to work is where you feel valued, diversity is celebrated and hard work is appreciated. For me, First Entertainment Credit Union embodies this fully.
