Category Archives: Strategic Planning and Execution

Erskine Financial Services Launches New “Affinity Co-Brand” Credit Card Programs for Scouting Alumni, Eagle Scouts

Erskine Financial Services is proud to announce the introduction of the new Boy Scouts of America (BSA) no-fee credit card rewards program that will strengthen the relationships between the organization and its strongest supporters.

“Erskine Financial Services specializes in transforming sports, affinity and agent-bank credit cards into co-brand credit card programs, and we are proud that the Boy Scouts of America have built such strong relationships with Scouting alumni and Eagle Scouts,” said CEO Hal Erskine.

The Boy Scouts of America and Eagle Scout Visa Rewards programs are issued through Missouri-based Commerce Bank and offer cardholders rewards on every purchase. In addition, the Boy Scouts of America receives a percentage of all purchases. Additionally, cardholders can donate their rewards to the BSA, as well as visit a Scout Rewards section site where a selection of BSA products is available for purchase with their points.

“Joining the Scouting family has been a point of pride for millions, and this program enables our Scouting alumni and Eagle Scouts to proudly celebrate their Scouting memories while also giving back to the organization and programs,” said Brad Farmer, Assistant Chief Scout Executive leading the Office of Development for the Boy Scouts of America. “The fact that this opportunity was developed with the support of an Eagle Scout who deeply understands this timeless connection makes this introduction even more special.”

Erskine said, “As someone who became an Eagle Scout in 1977 with Troop 162 of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Mooresville, NC, I am particularly proud to be able to share that relationship when I present my Eagle Scout Visa Rewards card at home and when I travel. Not only do I know my card usage is benefiting Scouting programs, but I’ve already met people who look at the card and tell me they also were Scouts.”

 “We’re excited to work with the Boy Scouts of America to offer a customized credit card product that offers such valuable and meaningful rewards and incentives,” said Chad Doza, Senior Vice President of Commerce Bank.  “The Boy Scouts of America is an impressive organization with an empowering mission.  Commerce Bank is proud to partner with such a notable organization and offer a card that will allow members to show their support while enjoying the many benefits that come with a Commerce Bank credit card.”

The card will be available through the Commerce Bank website at https://www.commercebank.com/BSA or https://www.commercebank.com/EagleScout.  The Boy Scouts of America and Eagle Scout credit cards are accepted anywhere Visa® is accepted.

If you would like more information, please contact Hal Erskine, CEO, Erskine Financial Services at 302-290-4201 or herskine@erskinefinancialservices.org

Card Programs That Create Memorable Fan Experiences

Erskine Financial Services specializes in transforming sports, affinity, and agent-bank credit cards into co-brand credit-card programs, and is working with a number of clients to bring fans and customers real experiences that reinforce their loyalty.

On a broader scale, Founder Hal Erskine helps banks, credit card networks, processors, and co-brand and affinity partners create or strengthen their card programs and generate new, profitable business.   Despite onerous regulatory oversight that has caused an aversion to any kind of risk, credit cards – done right – remain a profitable revenue stream that should either be taken off the back burner and allowed to grow…or they should be sold to allow the issuer to focus on other things.  We can help you do both.

Hal created Erskine Financial Services in 2014 after completing the sale (and flawless conversion) of PartnersFirst to First National Bank of Omaha.  He founded and managed PartnersFirst after 15 years at MBNA America and Bank of America Card Services, and brings the lessons learned from his experiences at all three companies to his clients.

Erskine brings CEO-level, present-day experience to credit-card consulting, offering a hands-on perspective (and affordable pricing structure) that few other consultants can offer at a time when regulatory scrutiny and risk concerns have rarely been higher. Erskine Financial Services is focusing on strategic planning and execution (including card marketing and business plans); portfolio growth and optimization; and deal coaching.

The value Hal offers his clients is simple:

  • Assessment of deal strengths and weaknesses.
  • Relationships with partners that will help you achieve your goals.
  • Understanding of ALL the minefields that are out there, and how to avoid or overcome them.
  • Ability to connect the dots and see trends and opportunities that others don’t.

Hal Erskine launches credit-card consulting services

Erskine Financial Services helps banks, credit card networks, processors, and co-brand and affinity partners create or strengthen their card programs and generate new, profitable business.   Despite onerous regulatory oversight that has caused an aversion to any kind of risk, credit cards – done right – remain a profitable revenue stream that should either be taken off the back burner and allowed to grow…or they should be sold to allow the issuer to focus on other things.  We can help you do both.

Hal Erskine

Hal Erskine

Hal Erskine created Erskine Financial Services after completing the sale (and flawless conversion) of PartnersFirst to First National Bank of Omaha.  He founded and managed PartnersFirst after 15 years at MBNA America and Bank of America Card Services, and is now bringing the lessons learned from his experiences at all three companies to his clients.

Erskine brings CEO-level, present-day experience to credit-card consulting, offering a hands-on perspective (and affordable pricing structure) that few other consultants can offer in 2014, a time when regulatory scrutiny and risk concerns have rarely been higher. Where others in the industry warn that Affinity is Dying, we believe there has never been a better time for issuers and co-brand/affinity partners to dip their toes back in the water.

Erskine Financial Services is focusing on strategic planning and execution (including card marketing and business plans); portfolio growth and optimization; and deal coaching.

The value Hal offers his clients is simple:

  • Assessment of deal strengths and weaknesses.
  • Relationships with partners that I can bring to the table to help you achieve your goals.
  • Understanding of ALL the minefields that are out there, and how to avoid or overcome them.
  • Ability to connect the dots and see trends and opportunities that others don’t.