Manager – ACH, Debit Card, and Checking Operations

Job Details

Description
Third Federal is a leading lender of conventional home mortgages lending in 27 states, plus the District of Columbia, with retail branch offices in Ohio and Florida. Our mission is to help people achieve the dream of home ownership and financial security while creating value for our customers, our communities, our associates, and our stockholders. Our value system of love (concern for others), trust, respect, a commitment to excellence, and fun is at the heart of our commitment to our mission, and just as importantly, to our company culture. Through this, we help people find the loan or savings product that makes sense for them.

At Third Federal, you will find strength and stability in your career. In our nearly 90-year history, we have never had layoffs, and have one of the lowest annual turnover rates at 6% (versus an industry average of nearly 19%). We have been certified as a 'Great Place to Work' multiple times in the last decade alone, and have been recognized with several additional workplace awards and recognitions. Because Third Federal associates are the foundation of our success, we take a genuine interest in each of them – from their professional development to their health and wellness.

Role Summary
The Manager of ACH, Debit Card, and Checking Operations is responsible for overseeing all aspects of ACH processing, debit card transaction, and checking operations for Third Federal. This role ensures operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service while driving continuous improvement and innovation. The manager will lead a high-performing team, manage vendor relationships, and collaborate across departments to support strategic objectives.

The role offers a hybrid/flexible schedule. There is an in-office expectation of 3 or more days per week with the flexibility to work outside the office location for the other days.

Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the ACH, Debit Card and Checking Operations team to achieve departmental goals.
• Foster a positive, collaborative work environment aligned with Third Federal's mission and values.
• Conduct performance evaluations and implement coaching plans to promote professional growth.

Operational Oversight

• Manage day-to-day ACH and debit card processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
• Oversee General Ledger balancing related to ACH, debit card, and checking transactions.
• Monitor operational metrics and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and customer experience.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to NACHA rules, Regulation E, and other applicable federal and state regulations.
• Own risk management for the ACH, Debit Card and Checking processes, including internal controls and audit readiness.
• Partner with compliance and risk teams to proactively identify and mitigate operational risks.

Vendor & Relationship Management

• Maintain strong relationships with key vendors (e.g., card networks, ACH processors, Federal Reserve).
• Negotiate contracts and monitor service level agreements to ensure optimal performance.

Strategic Planning & Process Improvement

• Collaborate with senior leadership to align ACH, debit card, and checking operations with organizational strategy.
• A key stakeholder in the process of implementing new technologies, products, and services that improve operational efficiency for the ACH, debit card, and checking operations team.
• Drive innovation through automation and digital enhancements in payment processing.

Reporting

• Provide regular reporting on operational performance, compliance, and risk management to department manager.

Requirements

• Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field preferred

• Experience:

• 5+ years in payment operations, with expertise in ACH and debit card processing

• 3+ years in a leadership role managing teams and operational processes

• Fiserv DNA experience a plus but not required

• Skills:

• Strong knowledge of NACHA rules, Regulation E, and debit card network regulations

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with payment processing systems and related technologies
• Ability to work within our values and culture
• Has a positive, proactive, customer-focused approach

• Ability to provide excellent internal and external customer service

• Certifications: AAP (Accredited ACH Professional) or similar is preferred but not required

Third Federal Perks & Benefits

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, dental, vision, and more
• 401k match
• 11 Bank Holidays + vacation/sick time
• Stock Ownership Allocation
• Exceptional culture and value system
• Strong work/life balance
• Growth opportunities
• Mortgage Discount Program
• Education Reimbursement Program

Our anticipated pay range for this position is $75,000 - $100,000 annually. At Third Federal, we're committed to transparency throughout the hiring process. The pay range listed is based on relevant market data, role responsibilities, and skills required for the position. Individual pay will be thoughtfully determined by a candidate's qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors.

Third Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, gender identification or sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status or any other classification protected under law.