In a heartfelt farewell speech that left many touched, the General Manager of the Ghana Cooperative Pharmacists Credit Union Limited (GCPCUL) bid adieu after an impressive 23 years of service. The retirement ceremony, held on Saturday August 12, 2023, was a bittersweet moment as colleagues, Board of Directors, past and present committee members, and fellow coworkers gathered to honor a chapter of dedication and achievements. The Board Chairman – Dr. Bingab – and General Manager – Mr. Bassim – of Cooperative Unions (CUA) were also in attendance.
With a mix of nostalgia and excitement for the future, the retiring General Manager shared his gratitude for the privilege of working alongside a remarkable team. “To refer to my colleagues and coworkers as ‘the team’ is an understatement. You are a fantastic bunch of individuals,” he warmly expressed.
The journey that began in March 2000 as the General Manager has been a remarkable one, as highlighted by the now-retired leader. “It has been an amazing ride with you, some of whom were students when I started here,” he shared with a touch of humor. Over the years, he has seen the credit union evolve, observing students become respected Board and Committee members who are now his bosses.
During his 23 years tenure as a General Manager Mr. David N. B. Guat grew membership of GCPCUL from 385 in year 2000 to 3,721 in 2022 and savings deposit from Ghs93,605.00 in year 2000 to Ghs 14,112,250.00 in year 2022. He also moved the loan book from Ghs 64,353.00 to Ghs 9,576,855.80 in year 2022 and net surplus from Ghs 2,924.00 in yest 2000 to Ghs 475,857.41. Mr. Guat took over the mantle of General Manager with a net asset of Ghs105,950.00, at his exit, he left behind a net asset base of Ghs 17,152,116.29 according to the 2022 GCPCUL Annual Reports & Financial Statements.
Reflecting on his contributions to the GCPCUL’s success, the General Manager acknowledged the challenges the organization faced in data management. “We have had challenges in the area of data management,” he noted, “and I oversaw the launch of many new software systems.” These implementations, such as infocopec, e-merge, MDsoft, zigloi, and the recent Flexibank, have greatly improved the credit union’s data management systems.
Among the highlights of his tenure were the opportunities for personal growth through seminars and conferences. “These experiences helped to sharpen and improve my managerial skills,” he shared. The retiring General Manager expressed gratitude to the past Presidents who provided valuable guidance and support throughout the years.
As he embarks on this new phase of life, the General Manager humorously remarked that he plans to “apply brakes on the stressful jobs, see the world a little bit, possibly engage in some legal/Paralegal activities and spend more time with my wonderful family.” He admitted that he will cherish the late-night calls, Sunday evening Zoom meetings, and the camaraderie in the boardroom.
In closing, the retiring General Manager left his colleagues with a piece of advice that encapsulates his professional journey: “Always strive for excellence even if you cannot achieve it, never give up on your dreams, be an honest steward, cherish every moment of your life, be open to criticism, and above all, work as unto the Lord.”
His departure marked not just the end of an era but the beginning of a new chapter for the GCPCUL. The credit union’s future is bright, and the groundwork he helped lay will undoubtedly lead to even greater accomplishments.
With emotions running high, the retirement of the GCPCUL’s General Manager was a testament to the bonds formed, the successes achieved, and the unity that defined his 23-year tenure. The credit union and its members now look forward to embracing the changes that lie ahead while cherishing the legacy he leaves behind.
