Chris T. Dickman, MBA, CPA, is a transformative financial executive and servant-leader whose career spans more than three and a half decades across the financial services, banking, and public accounting sectors. With an unparalleled blend of visionary strategy, deep operational expertise, and unwavering ethical leadership, Chris has consistently driven organizational growth, operational excellence, and long-term resilience. His career has been built not only on a foundation of strong financial acumen but on a deep belief in people, performance, and purpose.
Chris’s professional journey began in the world of public accounting, where he honed his technical expertise and developed a comprehensive understanding of regulatory frameworks, risk environments, and financial reporting. Starting as an audit associate and rising to audit manager with Tourville, Simpson & Caskey, he quickly became a trusted advisor for a range of banking institutions. His early exposure to financial institutions ranging in asset size from $20 million to $400 million laid the groundwork for his enduring commitment to financial integrity and client-centric service.
His tenure at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as a manager further solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking financial strategist. Chris managed major audit teams for Fortune 500 clients, including Bank of America, and played a key role in SEC filings, FDICIA compliance, and mergers and acquisitions. Notably, he directed various phases of audits and collaborated across national and international offices, contributing significantly to PwC’s regional growth strategy. His impact during this time included managing critical compliance procedures and fostering seamless cross-border cooperation within PwC’s global alliance network.
Transitioning from public accounting to corporate finance, Chris joined Wachovia Bank, where he served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance. At Wachovia, he was instrumental in overseeing general ledger change management, leading mergers and acquisitions, and addressing the evolving regulatory environment brought on by Sarbanes-Oxley legislation. His efforts in change management, system integration, and corporate controls underscored his strength in navigating complexity while ensuring GAAP integrity and operational alignment across business lines.
Chris’s leadership trajectory continued its ascent when he joined Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union (CTFCU), where he first served as Chief Financial Officer and later as President and Chief Executive Officer. Over his 13-year tenure, Chris transformed the organization from a traditional telecom-based credit union into a modern, diversified financial services entity. As CEO, he spearheaded asset growth of $265 million—representing a 73% increase—and led the organization through several critical initiatives, including a core banking system transition, charter change, fintech partnerships, and the launch of commercial and secondary market lending.
His strategic foresight proved especially valuable during times of crisis. Under Chris’s leadership, CTFCU successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, preserving financial health while supporting employees and members. He developed sophisticated liquidity and rate management tools, implemented new Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) processes, and introduced hedge strategies that generated over $3 million in additional revenue. These achievements reflect his disciplined yet entrepreneurial approach to leadership and risk management.
Chris’s ability to lead cross-functional teams and establish scalable operational frameworks is matched by his genuine passion for mentorship and collaboration. At CTFCU, he restructured the finance group to drive efficiency and built high-performing teams that remained integral to both strategic planning and tactical execution. His focus on transparency and engagement fostered trust among board members, employees, and external stakeholders, ultimately securing his promotion to CEO.
Following his successful tenure at CTFCU, Chris joined Tidemark Federal Credit Union as Chief Financial Officer, where he applied his deep expertise in financial statements, treasury management, and risk mitigation to continue driving value in a remote leadership capacity. Even in this transitional role, he remained dedicated to creating sustainable financial models and enhancing internal processes to support long-term success.
Chris’s influence extends beyond the organizations he has led. He is a licensed CPA in North Carolina, a member of AICPA, and actively engaged in finance groups within the Credit Union National Association. He has been quoted in credit union industry publications and spoken at commencements, annual meetings, and organizational forums—always emphasizing innovation, accountability, and strategic growth. He also holds an MBA and a dual bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Computer Information Systems.
Despite his eligibility for retirement, Chris remains driven by a desire to give back. His rich professional history, seasoned perspective, and tireless energy make him an exceptional candidate for board service. He brings a depth of wisdom shaped by economic cycles, regulatory evolution, and digital transformation. Yet, it is his servant-leader philosophy, his humility, and his personal values—integrity, generosity, and a love of learning—that truly define his legacy.
Character:
Chris Dickman leads with integrity, embodying the principles of servant-leadership in every professional endeavor. His unwavering moral compass and people-first mindset have earned him the trust and admiration of colleagues, boards, and communities alike.
Knowledge:
With over 35 years of experience, Chris possesses a rare depth and breadth of knowledge in banking, accounting, risk management, and strategic finance. His insights are grounded in both hands-on leadership and scholarly rigor, making him a trusted expert across diverse financial landscapes.
Strategic:
Chris has repeatedly demonstrated an exceptional ability to anticipate market changes, craft long-term strategies, and deliver measurable growth. From leading major system overhauls to navigating M&A and launching new lending platforms, his strategic impact is both visionary and tactical.
Communication:
A gifted communicator, Chris bridges gaps between stakeholders through transparency, clarity, and empathy. Whether engaging with boards, mentoring staff, or speaking at public events, his messages consistently inspire confidence, collaboration, and action.
