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Credit Union Central of Manitoba, SaskCentral, and Alberta Central Announce Sale of Celero business to CGI

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WINNIPEG, MB, CALGARY, AB, and REGINA, SK, July 4, 2024 /CNW/ – Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM), Credit Union Central of Saskatchewan (SaskCentral), and Credit Union Central of Alberta (Alberta Central) have reached a definitive agreement to sell the business of Celero, a leading provider of IT solutions to credit unions and financial institutions across Canada, to CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A), a leading global IT and business consulting services firm. This strategic transaction aims to position the Canadian credit union system as a technological innovator in the financial services industry for years to come.

Under the terms of the agreement, CGI will acquire Celero’s services and business which includes core banking, digital banking, managed services, integration, and security. The majority of Celero’s employee base will also join CGI, who is committed to providing support and resources to ensure a smooth transition for all new employees. 

“CGI is the ideal partner to continue the legacy of outstanding service Celero has established,” said Curtis Wennberg, CEO, CUCM and Chair of Celero. “We believe this transaction will provide a great path forward for the credit union system overall as well as for Celero’s employees. Combining Celero’s expert knowledge of credit unions’ needs with CGI’s global portfolio of services and solutions will create new opportunities for growth and innovation in the credit union system.”

The owners of Celero have been evaluating the most sustainable and scalable ownership structure to support the evolving needs of the credit union system. After a thorough review, the owners agreed that the acquisition of its business by CGI would be a strategic fit, allowing CGI to further develop and expand its services while offering continuity and enhanced capabilities to Celero’s clients.

“We believe this agreement is in the best interests of the Canadian credit union system,” said Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO, SaskCentral. “CGI’s extensive experience in serving the credit union sector will ensure the ongoing delivery of stable and innovative solutions for our credit unions.”

“Celero has been instrumental in delivering technology solutions that support the credit unions’ unique needs,” said Benjamin Chappell, CEO, Alberta Central. “Together with CGI, we are committed to ensuring continuity of service for Canadian credit unions through the transition.”

“We extend a warm welcome to Celero’s team and the valued banking expertise each person brings to clients and now to CGI,” said Michael Godin, President, Canada operations at CGI. “This acquisition aligns with our strategic goals and enhances our capabilities to best partner with our clients. The addition of Celero’s operations will further deepen CGI’s presence and positioning across Canada for this important sector which serves hundreds of thousands of Canadians nationwide. This transaction is consistent with our build and buy profitable growth strategy, while acting as a catalyst for future organic growth.”

As a result of this transaction, CGI will enhance and expand its services to credit unions. CGI has been serving Canadian credit unions with a range of innovative digital offerings, including core and online banking solutions and professional services for nearly 30 years.

About Celero

Celero is a leading provider of IT solutions to credit unions and financial institutions across Canada. Known for its expertise in core banking services, Celero has been instrumental in delivering technology solutions that support the financial services sector’s unique needs for over 20 years. Celero was established as a joint venture among the three Prairie Centrals, to provide core banking and other technology solutions to credit unions.

About CGI

Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,000 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2023 reported revenue is C$14.30 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

About Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM)

CUCM is the trade association and service provider for Manitoba’s credit unions. CUCM advocates on behalf of its members on sector priorities, manages liquidity reserves, monitors credit granting procedures, and provides support in multiple areas including system governance. CUCM also provides services to its members in the areas of treasury, credit adjudication, human resources, compliance, strategic consulting, and more. Manitoba credit unions jointly own CUCM and representatives sit on its board of directors. CUCM is financed through assessments and fee income derived through its operations.

About SaskCentral

SaskCentral is owned by, and is the liquidity manager for, Saskatchewan’s credit unions. By aggregating statutory liquidity deposits, SaskCentral facilitates clearing and settlement, provides credit facilities that support daily cash flow management, coordinates emergency liquidity support and provides investment management services. SaskCentral also maintains business relationships with, and investments in, a number of entities on behalf of Saskatchewan credit unions.

About Alberta Central

Alberta Central is the central banking facility and trade association for Alberta’s credit unions. Alberta Central offers credit unions in Alberta innovative products and services, thought leadership, research and analytics from The Intelligence Centre, advocacy on priority system issues, lending and liquidity management products, and much more. It also supports building awareness of the credit union difference through the Credit Unions of Alberta brand.

 

SOURCE Canadian Credit Union Association Cooperative

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Who’s Working Remotely? Virtual Vocations Survey Highlights Evolving Jobseeker Demographics

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This survey underscores the diverse backgrounds and experiences of remote jobseekers, highlighting the growing demand for flexible work arrangements across various demographics.

TUCSON, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — With over 500 participants from the U.S. (69%) and international locations (31%), Virtual Vocations‘ 2024 demographics survey offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of remote work. By comparing responses across these groups, the survey highlights shared experiences and unique challenges faced by jobseekers worldwide.

“Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.” –Laura Spawn, CEO and co-founder of Virtual Vocations

Although Virtual Vocations is a U.S.-based company, it supports international jobseekers through its fully remote job board and career resources, addressing the global demand for remote work opportunities. The company frequently receives inquiries from international members seeking to access fully remote roles, punctuating the worldwide appeal of flexible work arrangements.

“The 2024 demographics survey results reinforce what we’ve known for years—professionals around the world are seeking flexibility, balance, and opportunities to work from home,” said Virtual Vocations CEO Laura Spawn. “Whether based in the U.S. or abroad, jobseekers are embracing remote roles to align their careers with their personal goals, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey.”

Fully Remote Jobs Remain Most Desired

A significant 43% of U.S.-based jobseekers and 42% of international respondents named fully remote, no-travel jobs as their top preference. These roles, which allow employees to work entirely from home, offer flexibility, aligning with both personal and professional goals. Although occasional in-person requirements may arise, fully remote roles are favored over hybrid, partially remote, and “work from anywhere” options. These positions provide businesses with access to a broader talent pool and enable employees to prioritize workplace values and culture.

Top Industries for Remote Jobseekers

The survey also highlights four key industries attracting remote jobseekers worldwide. Information Technology (IT) stands out as the leading industry for remote roles, with significantly more job postings than any other field. Healthcare follows closely, benefiting from the growth of telehealth and remote medical roles. Customer service offers engaging opportunities for professionals interested in client interaction, while education presents a wide array of roles in online teaching, tutoring, and instructional design, fueled by the expansion of virtual learning.

Jobseekers’ Common Frustrations

Both U.S. and international jobseekers shared frustrations, particularly with online job scams. Jobseekers expressed dissatisfaction with the prevalence of scams, especially when searching for work-at-home positions. Despite relying on online job boards, only a quarter (23% of U.S. respondents and 24% of international respondents) use dedicated remote job boards, like Virtual Vocations, where job postings are thoroughly vetted to ensure they are free of scams. Additionally, many jobseekers expressed frustration with excessive job requirements and employers failing to provide feedback or “ghosting” applicants during the hiring process, with one-third of respondents from both groups reporting these issues.

Income Insecurity: A Global Concern

Income insecurity remains a pressing issue for both U.S. and international jobseekers, with many reporting their earnings as insufficient for comfortable living. Sixty-five percent of U.S. respondents and 77% of international respondents reported inadequate household incomes. Nearly half (48%) of U.S. jobseekers earn less than $60,000 annually, while 68% of international jobseekers earn under $30,000. To improve financial stability, many jobseekers have set income targets, with 30% of U.S. jobseekers aiming for $60,000–$89,999 and another 30% targeting at least $120,000. In contrast, international respondents generally require lower salaries, with 38% seeking $30,000–$59,999 and 32% aiming for $60,000–$89,999.

For a comprehensive analysis and additional insights, read the full demographics survey report here: https://www.virtualvocations.com/blog/annual-statistical-remote-work-reports/remote-work-demographics-survey-results-2024/

ABOUT VIRTUAL VOCATIONS
Founded in 2007 by CEO Laura Spawn and her brother, CTO Adam Stevenson, Virtual Vocations is a small company with a big mission: to connect jobseekers with legitimate remote job openings. To date, Virtual Vocations has helped more than four million jobseekers in their quests for flexible, remote work.

In addition to providing a database of current, hand-screened, and 100% remote job openings, Virtual Vocations offers jobseekers a number of tools to aid in their job searches, including exclusive career courses, downloadable jobseeker content, and career coaching and resume writing services. Virtual Vocations also releases several data-driven reports each year on current trends in remote work.

Virtual Vocations, Inc. is a private, family-owned, and 100% virtual company incorporated in Tucson, Arizona.

Media Contact

Kimberly Back, Virtual Vocations, Inc., 1 (800) 379-5092 x. 703, kim@virtualvocations.com, https://www.virtualvocations.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/whos-working-remotely-virtual-vocations-survey-highlights-evolving-jobseeker-demographics-302339757.html

SOURCE Virtual Vocations, Inc.

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Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families Provides Notice of Data Security Incident

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BOSTON, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Judge Baker Children’s Center d/b/a The Baker Center for Children and Families (“The Baker Center”), a nationally recognized provider of services for children’s mental health, has learned of a data security incident that may have impacted certain personal and / or protected health information. On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center formally notified potentially affected individuals with available address information and provided resources to assist them.

On July 28, 2024, The Baker Center discovered unusual activity within its local digital storage environment. After taking immediate steps to ensure the environment was secure, The Baker Center enlisted independent cybersecurity experts to conduct an investigation to determine what happened and whether sensitive information may have been impacted. According to the investigation, an unauthorized actor gained access to The Baker Center’s systems between July 26 – 28, 2024 and may have downloaded certain files. Following a thorough review of the impacted files, on October 28, 2024, The Baker Center determined that certain individuals’ personal and/or protected health information was potentially impacted during the incident.

The information affected during this incident varies between individuals but may have involved the following: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, driver’s license or other government identification number, financial account information, health insurance information, medical treatment or diagnosis information, and/or clinical information.

On December 27, 2024, The Baker Center mailed notification letters to potentially impacted individuals with verifiable address information. The letters include information about this incident and about steps that potentially impacted individuals can take to monitor and help protect their personal and protected health information. The Baker Center has established a toll-free call center to answer questions about the incident and to address related concerns. The call center can be reached at 844-920-8988, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM Eastern time

The Baker Center takes the security and privacy of information in its possession very seriously and is taking steps to prevent a similar event from occurring in the future. The Baker Center deeply regrets any inconvenience or concern this incident may cause.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/judge-baker-childrens-center-dba-the-baker-center-for-children-and-families-provides-notice-of-data-security-incident-302339677.html

SOURCE The Baker Center for Children and Families

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outboundIQ Achieves Certified Implementation Partner (CIP) Status with Five9

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Delivering Optimized, Outbound-Focused Contact Center Solutions for Modern Businesses

LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla., Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — outboundIQ www.outboundiq.com proudly announces its accreditation as a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner (CIP), a distinction that reflects its deep expertise in optimizing and streamlining outbound-focused contact center operations. With a team of seasoned Five9 veterans, expert programmers, and industry thought leaders, outboundIQ is uniquely equipped to help businesses of all sizes unlock the full potential of Five9’s Virtual Contact Center platform.

Optimized Solutions for Complex Contact Center Needs
outboundIQ specializes in providing expedited, outbound-focused contact center implementations, integrating advanced features such as inbound and outbound Voice, SMS, Chat, Email, Salesforce Integration, and other third-party app integrations. Clients can also leverage ongoing optimization engagements and monthly retainers for strategic consulting designed to support long-term, outreach-focused success.

“Who better to handle your domain configuration than the experts that understand the outbound contact center world. To be an outbound expert, you must know 3 things; how to configure the domain front end, how the architecture interprets that design, and how carriers respond to your dialing behavior as a result of the build. outboundIQ has the advantage of deeply understanding all 3 things. Our experts are seasoned professionals that will guide toward the best build for your business. You tell us about your business, your needs and your processes, and we will build you a domain fit for purpose. outboundIQ offers best in class Domain Optimization, Implementation and Consulting for customers of all sizes and complexity. Due to our methodology and proprietary automations, we are able to bring our customers’ projects to life within accelerated timeframes.”

Jessica Clay, VP Support and Services

“We launched our business in June and were fortunate to connect with the incredible team at outboundIQ early on. Navigating the world of outbound calling and building efficient prospecting systems isn’t easy, but the entire team at outboundIQ brought our vision to life seamlessly. They implemented our ideas quickly and executed them flawlessly. Since partnering with them, our contact rates have significantly improved, our conversions have increased, and our overall business is thriving. We’re deeply grateful for this collaboration and look forward to continuing our work together on future endeavors!”

– Tim, Lit Financial

“I genuinely don’t know enough ways to thank the entire outboundIQ team. I inherited a domain riddled with mistakes, tangled beyond belief, and I had essentially planned to scrap the whole thing and start over. That’s when this team, led by Jessica Clay’s brilliance, took over to understand exactly what I wanted to create and completely revitalized my domain. We are all beyond thankful as they continue to consult for us to this day and I see no reason to stop. Thank you, Jessica, Jason, Rudy, Bruno, Sandy and everyone who gets the pleasure of working with these domain geniuses!”

– Michael, Lifetime Home Remodeling

A Holistic Approach to Outbound Excellence
Creating a competitive, consumer-focused outreach program requires more than just advanced technology. As outboundIQ explains, a thriving contact center functions like a high-performing racing team:

The Car: Five9 Virtual Contact Center provides a cutting-edge technology foundation.The Driver: Strong Dialer Administrators who skillfully manage operations.The Pit Crew: IT/Support teams ensuring seamless functionality.The Spotters: Data Analytics and Reporting experts optimizing performance.The Fuel: High-quality data driving better outcomes.

outboundIQ’s professional services team brings these critical elements together, ensuring clients achieve best-in-class outbound operations that prioritize consumer experience while maintaining a competitive edge.

A Call to Collaboration
With its new CIP certification, outboundIQ invites businesses to explore select partnership opportunities and projects to reimagine their contact center operations. Whether through expedited implementations or ongoing strategic consulting, outboundIQ is committed to driving measurable results for its clients.

About outboundIQ
outboundIQ delivers optimized, outbound-focused contact center implementations, combining years of Five9 expertise with cutting-edge strategies to help businesses achieve exceptional outreach outcomes. As a Five9 Certified Implementation Partner, outboundIQ provides tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of modern organizations.

About Five9
Five9 is a digital enterprise’s leading cloud contact center and software provider. The Five9 Intelligent CX Platform is reliable, secure, compliant, and scalable, designed to create exceptional personalized customer experiences.
www.five9.com

Media contact: 
Sandy Tafur
Phone: 404-660-5314
mail: sandy@outboundiq.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/outboundiq-achieves-certified-implementation-partner-cip-status-with-five9-302339797.html

SOURCE outboundIQ

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