As NEACH’s Records Administrator and Information Technology Support Lead, Joe Nompleggi handles the integrity and performance of NEACH’s databases and makes sure company data is secure. He also evaluates new technologies to improve member experience and help NEACH leverage its technology and data in the most efficient, engaging way.
Joe has worked in information technology, software development and database management for over 20 years; most recently, he served as Vice President of Product Development at Complete HealthCare Solutions, Inc.
Although Joe is new to the banking and payments industry, he sees many parallels with healthcare in terms of regulatory, compliance, and security concerns and is excited to apply what he knows and keep learning as he goes.
“I never want to sit idle,” he says.
Joe joined NEACH in October 2021 and has already hit the ground running. He also keeps just as active outside of work, as coach of his kids’ softball and basketball teams.
Can you speak to your current role at NEACH? What is your main focus?
I’m the Records Administrator and IT Support. It’s a wide-ranging area of responsibility. For example, NEACH has a few different systems they use along with many spreadsheets. I need to find out what technology and data NEACH has, and how to get actionable information out of those sources of data so NEACH can serve members as well as possible.
Could you tell us more about your banking background?
Before joining NEACH, I worked in healthcare IT for a software development company. I managed a development team, and we developed an electronic medical record software. We also managed their data center, infrastructure, software development, and security. We provided hosting services for physician private practices, as well.
I have a lot of experience in IT and in regulatory issues and information security, but I actually don’t have a whole lot of banking background. I’m hoping I can offer database expertise and get analytical stuff done, and I’m excited to work in banking because it’s a new niche for me to pick up new skills. This is an opportunity for me to learn and grow.
How does your expertise and experience speak to specific challenges at financial institutions?
Generally, IT doesn’t really change much from one field to another. Healthcare IT requires stringent security and regulatory issues, and those learnings can be applied to financial institutions. For example, there are parallels with things like regulatory laws and rules that affect how you have to do your job, while meeting compliance rules and guidelines.
How do you see COVID-19 affecting the payments industry? What have been the pain points, as well as any unexpected silver linings?
I’m from a small town, where we have a small, family-owned bank with two branches. Before the pandemic, I didn’t really think, “If the bank is closed, how do I get my money?” I think COVID-19 has moved many banks’ products and services online.
Overall, a lot of industries had to adapt to technology. The pandemic and the need to be remote has triggered that need to implement new technologies quickly.
What excites you most about your job?
I like the idea of working in a new industry. It’s important to always be learning and widening your professional horizons. As a result of COVID-19, there has been a lot of advancement in technology and software apps, and it’s a great time to get involved with banking and payments. I’ve also always been interested in digital currency and the growth potential there.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue out of work?
I volunteer a lot. I have a 17-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter, and both are involved in sports. I coach soccer and basketball, and I volunteer in sports organizations. I’m a member of the local school committee; it’s like a school board, where we’re elected to the position and vote on any policy-related issues, such as masks and hybrid classes, etc. I don’t like to sit idle too much.
What was the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning.
What are you reading right now?
My daughter and I are reading Harry Potter.
What's your favorite movie of all time, and why?
I’m going to have to go with The Princess Bride. When it comes to movie quotes that I use most often, that’s the movie they usually come from: “Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”
I don’t even know why I say that so much. My dad is healthy!
Contact Joe in Members Corner, by email jnompleggi@neach.org, or phone: 781-321-1011.
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