BRANDON, Fla.—Mary Ott Wood, president and CEO of Florida West Coast Credit Union, has announced plans to retire Oct. 27 after 24 years of service. A search for a successor has been launched.
“Serving others has been the guiding principle throughout Mary Ott Wood’s entire career,” the credit union said in a statement. “She began her dedication to credit unions at the age of 19 while working at Navy Orlando FCU (now Fairwinds CU).
True to her philosophy of ongoing learning, while Mary worked full time at the credit union, her second job waitressing helped her enroll in night college classes at the University of Central Florida beginning in 1978. She is no stranger to endurance, since her passion for track and cross-country in high school prepared her for the long-distance challenge of earning her B.S.B.A. finance degree over the next 11 years.”
Rising Through the Ranks
During her career Wood rose from part-time credit card clerk to teller to accounting department manager to branch manager and finally assistant VP over her 15 years of service at Fairwinds Credit Union. Wood then was named executive VP during her five-year term at Martin FCU, during which time she earned her Certified Credit Union Executive designation.
Wood was named in 1999 to lead Florida West Coast Credit Union. Since taking the helm, Wood said she has overseen growth to $128 million in assets and five branches from $19 million in assets.
“With dedication to credit union operating principles, Mary leaves a healthy institution with exceptional audits and exams, to the next generation of leaders,” the credit union said.
Career Accomplishments
During her career, Wood was:
- Recognized with CUNA’s Buck Levins award, alongside her husband, Art Wood, for their dedication to political advocacy on behalf of credit union members.
- Served as chair and board member for the League of Southeastern Credit Unions, Central Florida Chapter of Credit Unions, Florida Council of the Credit Union Executive Society, CUNA’s Advocacy Committee and State Subcommittee.
- A board member of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation, Florida West Coast Credit Union Seeks President/CEO
Search for Successor
Florida West Coast Credit Union said it is
actively searching for a full-time president/CEO. Among the requirements being sought:
- A minimum of 10 years executive level experience in credit unions.
- Qualified candidates must possess proven leadership qualities, understanding of credit union philosophy, compliance and regulations impacting credit unions, a thorough understanding of financial management, and the ability to maintain and grow both membership and financial products.
- A bachelor’s degree in finance (or related fields) is preferred, although comparable work experience and specialized training will be considered.
- Candidate must be willing to relocate and work on-site at the main office in Brandon, Florida.
- Relationship building skills are a priority as the CEO must confidently relate and easily engage with political and elected leadership since FWCCU serves county government employees and their families.
A cover letter and resume, along with salary history and requirements, should be sent to resume@fwccu.com by April 21, 2023.
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