LA CANADA, Calif.– Following a 38-year tenure, Rich Harris, the president and CEO of Caltech Employees FCU, has announced he will retire April 1.
“As the longest-serving CEO in CEFCU's history, Rich has exemplified unwavering dedication, passion, and profound leadership, strategically steering the credit union towards consistently providing unsurpassed financial value and member service,” CEFCU said in a statement.
While CEO, Harris has overseen asset growth to $2 billion from $92 million.
“During his tenure, Rich has implemented operational and financial improvements for the organization’s sustainability and stability,” CEFCU stated. “He has opened new office locations and diversified the credit union’s products and services, all the while staying true to the exclusive Caltech field of membership and unique business model that serves the best financial interest of its member/owners.”
‘Massive Action’
In addition, CEFCU credited Harris for what it said was his pioneering initiative, “Massive Action,” which the credit union said has set the standard for exceeding member service excellence, ensuring CEFCU’s position as the valued and trusted choice for its 38,000 members,
Active Nationally, Locally
In addition, CEFCU said:
- Harris has “generously devoted” his time and expertise to NAFCU, and was elected to serve as a board member three times, including as chairman in 2017-18. “While serving NAFCU, Rich was a fervent advocate for credit unions, diligently building and maintaining pivotal relationships with top lawmakers, regulators, and administration officials, focusing on federal advocacy, tax exemption, and compliance,” the credit union said.
- In local communities, Harris actively served volunteer leadership positions with the USC Verdugo Hills Hospital and the Crescenta Valley (Los Angeles County) Sheriff’s Support Group, earning him the recognition of the Kiwanis Club’s prestigious “La Cañadan of the Year" award. He also supported several Caltech initiatives, including the Caltech Y, The Caltech Associates, Caltech Public Events, and TEDxCaltech: The Brain.
Vision & Foresight
“Rich’s vision and foresight guided CEFCU through historic challenges and great opportunities over the years,” said Board Chair Steve Proia. “His invaluable contributions have had a transformative impact on CEFCU’s growth, enabling us to reach new heights while staying true to our core values. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his leadership, vision, and tireless efforts, which have guided our organization toward the success it enjoys today.”
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