Janet Gaspard, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at First Entertainment Credit Union, recently completed Darden’s Bank Executive Leadership Program. We caught up with her to hear how the experience helped sharpen her strategic lens and elevate her impact in the C-suite.
Let’s start with your career journey. What led you to where you are today?
My path hasn’t been linear; it’s been shaped by opportunity, mentorship, and a passion for people. Early in my career at a B2B publishing company in Malibu, a remarkable COO saw potential in me and invested in my growth. That experience influenced my leadership philosophy: the most lasting impact comes from developing others.
I eventually found my place in the credit union movement, an industry that prioritizes people over profit. For 21 years, I led HR at the Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union, serving law enforcement professionals. In 2021, I joined First Entertainment Credit Union, attracted by its unique blend of finance and the entertainment industry. Within ten months, I was promoted to SVP and Chief People Officer. It’s been a deeply rewarding journey of growth, learning, and purpose.
What inspired you to join Darden’s Bank Executive Leadership Program?
Our CEO, a supporter of lifelong learning, encouraged me to broaden my financial and strategic knowledge. Darden provided the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding of the business beyond HR, and it turned out to be one of the most enriching learning experiences of my career.
The program boosted my confidence and credibility as a C-suite leader. I’m engaging more fully in enterprise-level strategy and even considering future roles like Chief Strategy Officer.
What were your biggest takeaways?
The case study method was transformative. It expanded my financial understanding and sharpened my ability to solve problems with a broader, enterprise-wide perspective. I still revisit the cases because the insights are timeless, and I now use select cases to challenge my leadership team’s thinking.
Two lessons stand out:
- Balance sheet strategy: I now participate in boardroom discussions with greater confidence and perspective.
- The Silicon Valley Bank case: Analyzing that failure deepened my understanding of risk, resilience, and governance, and highlighted how every function contributes to enterprise risk management.
How did the banking-specific focus shape the experience?
It was crucial. The program didn’t just teach finance; it integrated strategy, leadership, and decision-making within the banking context, making every lesson immediately relevant and practical.
Bank Executive Leadership Program
Join senior banking and financial leaders to gain strategic insights to navigate financial disruption and manage transformation.
What was it like learning alongside faculty and peers?
The faculty were exceptional, clear, accessible, and masterful storytellers. The cohort was equally impressive. The diverse perspectives from leaders across markets and disciplines enriched every discussion and helped build a network I’ll carry forward.
How are you applying what you learned back at work?
The program boosted my confidence and credibility as a C-suite leader. I’m engaging more fully in enterprise-level strategy and even considering future roles like Chief Strategy Officer, where I can combine my passion for people with broader business impact.
Most importantly, Darden expanded my leadership vision. It reminded me that my role isn’t just about People & Culture; it’s about shaping the organization’s future, thinking bigger about impact, and positioning First Entertainment Credit Union for long-term success.
