LOMPOC, Calif.—CoastHills Credit Union has named a new president and CEO.
The $1.1-billion CoastHills said it has selected Paul Cook to lead the organization. Cook, who has served as CoastHills’ executive vice president and chief experience officer, replaces Interim CEO Dal Widick.
The hiring comes shortly after the CU’s former CEO, Jeff York, filed suit against the credit union alleging wrongful termination, as CUToday.info reported here.
The credit union has countered that the suit is without merit, as CUToday.info reported. here
Cook joined CoastHills as SVP and chief information officer in June of 2015, and since February of 2018 has served as the EVP and chief experience officer, where the credit union said he has played an integral role in shaping its strategic direction.
Cook has more than 20 years’ experience in the financial industry, including serving as SVP/chief information officer at Heritage Oaks Bank; chief technology officer at Los Alamos National Bank in Los Alamos, N.M.; and vice president of IT at Pioneer Federal Credit Union in Idaho.
CoastHills said it utilized a national search firm to conduct the process, which initially generated more than 50 applicants.
“We were very encouraged by the caliber of candidates who showed such a strong desire to step into this role,” said Board Chairman Bill Anders. “Our decision to choose Paul was unanimous, and we are all confident he is the best person to take us forward. This credit union has a heritage of service to our members, local communities, and with Vandenberg Air Force Base. Under Paul’s leadership, we will continue our steadfast commitment to go above and beyond for our member-owners.”
Added Cook, “My wife, Theresa, and I are excited about this next phase of our lives here on the Central Coast. I am humbled and honored to serve the 67,000 member-owners that make up CoastHills and to accomplish many more great things with the incredible people on the CoastHills team.”