Driving Technology and Cybersecurity Success for Credit Unions & Community Banks
When systems fall behind, your reputation and your institution’s future are on the line.
Fix what’s broken.
Protect what matters.
Lead with confidence.
If you’re leading a bank or credit union without a CIO or CISO, you’ve probably felt the pressure:
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Projects keep stalling or running over budget
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Vendors overpromise and underdeliver
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Cybersecurity and compliance needs keep shifting
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Your team is doing their best, but no one’s truly leading IT
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Manual workarounds and outdated systems slow everything down
The risk isn’t just technical. It’s strategic.
Customers notice.
Auditors notice.
And sooner or later, your board will too.
Solution Overview
You don’t need more tools or vendors.
You need someone who can lead.
I’m Paul Zyla, founder of Purlin Horizons. I provide fractional CIO and CISO services to banks, credit unions, and small businesses that need clarity, structure, and results, but don’t have the budget or need for a full-time executive. My clients gain confidence knowing their technology strategy supports growth, reduces risk, and meets regulatory expectations.
I help you:
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Fix what’s broken and reduce risk
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Get stalled projects moving
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Strengthen security and simplify compliance
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Align IT with your business goals
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Keep costs under control
All without hiring full-time.
How It Works
Step 1: Start with a Tech Assessment
We look at your systems, vendors, and security posture to spot gaps and risks.
Step 2: Get a Clear Plan
You get a simple roadmap. No jargon, just smart next steps.
Step 3: Execute with Leadership
If needed, I stay on to lead the work, support your team, and move projects forward.
Step 4: Stay On Track
Once things are stable, I offer light-touch advisory support to help you stay aligned and ahead.
Offers...
We like simplicity
Smart Shift Diagnostic Sprint
30 Days · $3,500
A focused technology and cybersecurity assessment with a simple, actionable plan.
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Review systems, risks, and vendor performance
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Identify compliance gaps and security risks
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Deliver a board-ready summary and clear priorities
Smart Shift Leadership Plan
90 Days · $9,000
Hands-on leadership to fix problems, drive results, and support your team.
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Strategy sessions and roadmap execution
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Vendor oversight and IT team support
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Improvements in systems, security, and delivery
Smart Shift Advisory
$2,500/month
Ongoing strategic support once major work is done.
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Monthly check-ins
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Guidance on key decisions
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Roadmap adjustments and board support
Not sure where to start?
Most clients begin with the 30-day Diagnostic Sprint.
Why Clients Work with Me
✔️Over 35 years of experience in banking and tech leadership
✔️Deep understanding of compliance, risk, and regulation
✔️Former CIO and CTO who speaks business, not just IT
✔️Fractional model that fits your size and budget
✔️Trusted by executive teams and boards alike
If your financial institution is operating without a full-time tech leader, it’s only a matter of time before something breaks or someone notices.
Let’s get ahead of it.