MADISON, Wis.— CUES has named its 2019 Outstanding Chief Executive award winner. Selected for the honor is Sterling Nielsen, president/CEO of Mountain America Credit Union in Sandy, Utah.
CUES said the Outstanding Chief Executive award recognizes credit union CEOs who have rendered exceptional service and made outstanding contributions to strengthen their credit union and the industry.
“Since joining Mountain America as CEO in 2008, Sterling led the credit union through the recession and achieved significant growth in the subsequent years,” CUES said. “In 2013, he unveiled an ambitious 10-year, $10 billion plan. The strategies set forth by Sterling allowed the credit union to grow at an average of 17.39% from 2016 to 2018. With approximately $9 billion in assets, the credit union is currently on track to achieve the $10 billion goal two years ahead of schedule.”
In addition to the strategic vision needed to lead a successful credit union, CUES said Nielsen sees the impact each employee has on the success of the organization.
‘Ensuring Employees are Engaged’
“He believes in hiring and retaining the best talent possible and doing everything he can to ensure that employees are engaged to take care of the member,” CUES said. “He has spent his time as CEO introducing new and enhancing existing programs to ensure employees can develop and grow. The various programs he’s implemented show his commitment to employees and allow Mountain America to retain the best talent possible.”
In addition, CUES said Nielsen’s commitment to helping people has led him to actively support the community by serving on various boards and committees. He currently serves on the Western CUNA Management School board of trustees, Utah Credit Union Association board, Kem Gardner Policy Institute Advisory board, CU Direct Board and the Hale Centre Theatre board of trustees.
Neilsen will be honored at CUES CEO/Executive Team Network Nov. 4-6 in Amelia Island, Fla.