Community and Workers of Jamaica Co-operative Credit Union Ltd (C&WJ), which claims to be the largest credit union in Jamaica with an asset size of $15.9 billion, has completed the implementation of its new core banking platform, Sharetec, from Bradford Scott out of the United States.

“We are excited about our new, online, value added services, which include, loan application, external funds transfer to other financial institutions, as well internal funds transfer between accounts at the credit union, as well as bill payments,” declared Carlton Barclay, CEO of the credit union. “New members can now apply for membership online. Additionally, we have launched our mobile app for both Apple and Android.”

Barclay indicated that the core banking system conversion was a seamless one, and he was very appreciative of both members and staff for their continuous commitment to the credit union.

Through the new implementation, members of the credit union will be able to do business with ease from the comfort of their homes. The new core banking system also offers more options for face-to-face interaction that is focused on building and strengthening relationships with members, which is central to the credit union’s ethos.

“This is a proud moment for us,” said Pete Smith, president of Community and Workers of Jamaica Co-operative Credit Union. “Prior to the merger with former St Elizabeth Co-operative Credit Union, there was also a merger with former Desnoes and Geddes Co-operative Credit Union. We are infused with the passion for meeting the needs of our members and their families in communities across Jamaica, and our diversified products and services make this possible. We have products specially tailored for each stage and phase of the lives of our members.”

This core banking system implementation came exactly two months after C&WJ merged with former St Elizabeth Co-operative Credit Union on September 1, 2018, which extended its branch network to 22 across the island.

Smith assured that C&WJ has also agreed to make the system available to all credit unions in Jamaica through an agreement with Bradford Scott and QNET.

Joyce West-Johnson, chief operating officer of the credit union, expressed her appreciation for the way the Bradford Scott team handled the implementation process for C&WJ.

“The Bradford Scott team was easy to work with and they understood our needs and desire to create efficiency and ensure ease of access for our valued members,” she stated. “With the new technology available, the possibilities are endless.”

Kevin Kolar, a board director with Sharetec Systems, also voiced his satisfaction with the project and the way the teams worked together.

“This has been one of our most seamless conversions to date,” he revealed. “We look forward to working with QNET, C&WJ, and other credit unions in Jamaica.”