On Fostering Great Partnerships
Meet Nik Vukovich, our Director of Financial Institution Partnerships!
As Upgrade continues to grow and demand for consumer credit skyrockets, we must partner with banks and credit unions that can facilitate our customers’ wishes for credit lines, loans, and more. That’s where Nik comes in! He builds relationships with the financial institutions that make our business possible. From first contact to initial presentations to finalizing partnership agreements and beyond, Nik ensures our partnerships are solid, strong, and based in mutual trust and respect.
At over one hundred partnerships and counting, that’s a big undertaking! We met with Nik virtually to chat about his experience being the bridge between us and our partners.
What brought you to Upgrade?
The people and the opportunity. I had friends who worked there and it intrigued me. I only had to bug them for five years!
We’re so glad your persistence paid off. It’s made a big difference for us too! What is your favorite thing about working at Upgrade?
The people! I like, admire, and trust them and I believe in what we are creating here.
How have you grown, as a person and as a professional, since joining Upgrade?
I’ve learned to be a better listener and to be more patient.
That’s great. What are some other valuable things you’ve learned since joining Upgrade?
Hard conversations can build strong relationships with clients and co-workers.
What is the most exciting and/or challenging project you’ve worked on so far?
Trailblazing a new investment strategy for the Credit Union space.
Big projects like that require big teams. What do you appreciate most about your teammates?
Their vulnerability and integrity make them incredibly trustworthy. That creates a very safe environment to excel in and be a part of.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Countless phone calls and meetings to present and sell the Upgrade loan purchase program to bank and credit union executives. The goal is finding a home for every loan Upgrade originates.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in a career at Upgrade?
Be persistent. If you truly want to be a part of Upgrade, your opportunity will come if you are willing to keep showing up. (It only took me five years!)
Last but not least, share some non-work-related things about yourself! What do you like to do when you’re not working?
My faith in God is the most important thing to me, and my wife and two children drive me on a daily basis. When I am not working or with family I love skiing and rock climbing all over the world!
Director of Financial Institution Partnerships at Upgrade, Inc.
2yAll Pro Performer & Team Member!!
Business Development, Product, Marketing, & Finance Executive
2yWay to go Nik. You are an AMAZING partner.
Looking for a job
2yYou’re surely fostering economic and entrepreneurial development by tapping into individual and small business opportunities . These is a real milestone for growth and development. Thanks