Frank T. Nico, CAP®, ChFC®, CGMA® Director of Planned Giving; Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN)
As a long-time supporter of various charitable outreaches, Frank Nico naturally gravitated in the direction of one of those organizations as he contemplated a career move prior to 2006. He was looking for the right fit - one that would fulfill a calling in his life to create more meaningful impact as he approached the later decades of his career. His quest led him to join The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) following a long career in the manufacturing industry as Director of Finance and Controller over global business operations in the U.S., Canada, Europe and South America. "I did not fully realize how dramatic the transition from private industry to the nonprofit world would be," he said. He was personally drawn to the organization by his desire to help them continue their mission to bring answers and hope to the nations of the world through mass media, primarily television broadcasts and a wide range of humanitarian projects.
With other attractive offers to consider, transitioning to CBN was not an easy decision to make. However, approaching his career from his faith base, Frank felt he wanted his life to count toward something and it is that which drove him to accept the position. CBN brought Frank in contact with like-minded individuals looking for the same thing. "They really look to you as a trusted friend. That's one of the things I take seriously," says Frank of the donors he counsels. CBN emphasizes integrity, excellence and innovation and he has kept that driving force in the forefront of his relationships with donors and other advisors. Frank gives credit, in part, to The American College for his successful transition from finance to the nonprofit sector. The education he received provided a solid foundation that blended well with his professional business background and experience. "Initially I undertook the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) program to enhance my skill set in providing financial counsel and financial services," explains Frank. He later furthered his education in the areas of Retirement Planning with emphasis on Senior Living advisory. After several years developing the Planned Giving program at CBN, Frank was attracted to the CAP® program which he felt complemented his responsibilities and relationships with donors and the other professionals with whom he engages on a daily basis. "One of the most important aspects of the planned gift advisor is to understand the heart of the donor," says Frank. "Who do they want to reach, what do they want to pass on to others, and what legacy do they want to leave on this earth" He feels CAP® has helped him to integrate the aspirations of the donor, in conjunction with their advisors, into a strategic plan that meets the needs of the person, their family and the desired charitable outcome. "It has been very rewarding to build a legacy donor program that supports the CBN Family of Ministries. "What advice would he offer to his peers in financial services that would better guide their efforts in working with donors" "Listen and explore. You have to care about the person you are talking to and it has to be genuine," believes Frank. "Be sensitive to what the person shares. Your interest and passion must show."
Reprinted with permission from CAPShare newsletter.