Get to know GLCCA board member Tom Oldani, IFCCE, CCCO, president and CEO of Arbor Professional Solutions.
How did you get started in this industry?
I graduated from the University of Michigan in 1987 with a bachelor’s degree in general studies into an economy that was more than anemic. I was working three jobs at the time and, having funded my tuition, I was deep in debt. It was a very tough time in the late 1980s.
I answered a local advertisement for an entry-level collector position. I was the second choice. I never let my boss Bob Barden forget that—God rest his soul. I called him back after a week or two and he was happy to hear from me as the first candidate hadn’t worked out. I found out later that on that person’s first day, they went to lunch and never returned. I think many folks in this industry can relate to that!
This coming year I will be celebrating 35 years with our organization serving in virtually every position the corporation has. From collector, skiptracer, manager, IT manager, sales, chief operating officer, all the way up to owner. It’s been an incredible career, and my education truly prepared me for the diverse duties and challenges I’ve faced over the three decades.
Do you have a career highlight or achievement that you are most proud of?
There’s no question that becoming the owner of the business I started out in is without a doubt the pinnacle of my achievements. The man who hired me, Bob Barden, gave me the incredible chance to achieve that goal. He made it all possible, which is why losing him way too soon last year certainly was rough. I can’t thank him enough for the opportunity to learn the business. He was an incredible mentor. Having the opportunity to work closely with his daughter as a partner in the business makes it all that more special.
Why did you want to get involved in GLCCA? What are your board responsibilities?
This one is a rather unique story. As a leader and past president in our state association, Michigan Association of Collection Agencies, we were faced with dwindling membership, lack of participation and open officers and board seats year after year. That challenge isn’t the unique part, but perhaps our solution is. Despite an “all hands on deck” approach from the leadership at the time, we simply could not buck that trend, so a merger with GLCCA seemed inevitable. By joining efforts with this solid multi-state association, we could tap into the benefits that a strong collection industry association carries. Whether it be getting direct access to best practices, cutting-edge collection technology or the more critical access to solutions to all the compliance challenges our industry faces, we knew this was what our state association needed to thrive. As a result of that merger, which occurred this year, and because I recently had become that “old member” in the room, my peers asked me to assist in a leadership role as we transitioned into this new chapter.
My board responsibilities include working closely with GLCCA leadership in a steering role of our four-state association. In addition, I serve as the Michigan legislative chair, coordinating with our members in the vital role of monitoring, communicating, battling and anticipating all activities that occur at a state level. This includes dealing with onerous legislative bills, actions and proposals that impact our industry and our livelihood, which these days seem to be unfortunately far too common. In addition, I work as another level of communication from GLCCA back to our state members.
What’s something that you think ACA members don’t know about GLCCA?
I know they would understand the deep concern and care we as members have for our industry, but they may be surprised by the amount of work our volunteer leadership carries to that end. GLCCA has a standing monthly meeting with its board and officers. In addition, I meet regularly with our state association to address legislative needs as well as communications about our GLCCA leadership. In addition, we have periodic meetings that include addressing the significant legislative challenges we face. Yeah…it’s a lot of meetings. I’m so fortunate to be working with the folks of GLCCA. All of the board members are so dedicated to the work, but in particular, our incredible president Jaime Barthel and past president Ryan Matrisch make the experience very enjoyable. I’m very honored to be part of that team.