MADISON, Wis.– Members First Credit Union has named a new president and CEO to succeed the retired Nicholas Kessenich.
The $27-million CU has named Jennifer Kutz to lead the organization. Kutz joined Members First as a marketing specialist in 2014 before being named VP-operations in October of 2018, where she was responsible for day-to-day operations, including staff training and supervising, new product and service development for members, and strategic planning for the credit union.
“Jennifer worked very closely with Nick over her tenure at the credit union and we are confident in her ability to continue the legacy that Nick leaves behind,” said Board Chair Ron Kluge.
‘Big Shoes to Fill’
Added Kutz, “I am so lucky to have gotten to work alongside Nick and to see his love and dedication to the credit union, and it’s members. For him and the board to entrust me to continue his legacy means more than I can put into words and gives me big shoes I will work hard to fill.”
Kessenich served as president/CEO for nearly 40 years, joining the CU when it was known as Sub-Zero Employees Credit Union in 1977.
In March of 1981, Kessenich joined the board, and when then President Dick Hurd suddenly passed away in December of 1981 he was approached by board member Gerald Ring and asked to manage the credit union.
At the time, its assets were just $180,000 and there were 300 employees. Today, the CU serves more than 3,000 members.