YUBA CITY, Calif.–Sierra Central Credit Union has named a new CEO to succeed the retiring John Cassidy, while in Texas DATCU has named a new president.
Cassidy, who has served as CEO for 22 years and who plans to retire on Jan. 15, 2022, will be succeeded by Ron Sweeney, who currently serves as president.
“It is unique for a CEO to last 22-years in any industry, but my leadership team, led by our president Ron Sweeney, has always gone above and beyond to find ways to bring the best products, services, technology and customer experiences to our over 70,000 credit union owner-members,” said Cassidy in a statement. “Ron’s 37-years of experience in the credit union industry will provide Sierra Central with top-shelf expertise and leadership. I am excited for his new adventure and have the utmost confidence that he will continue to grow this company with great success.”
In announcing the change the credit union noted Cassidy has overseen growth to $1.4-billion in assets during his tenure.
“I am extremely proud that Sierra Central has become a dynamic presence in the North State, as well as a highly respected corporate citizen,” said Cassidy.
Career Accomplishments
Sierra Central said that among Cassidy’s accomplishments during his career:
- He led the creation of the Sierra Central Sports Roundtable, the first regional studio sports talk show on what is now called NBC Sports Bay. This program featured former Sacramento King Harold Pressley.
- Over the past 22-years, the credit union has dedicated millions of dollars in funds to local worthy causes.
- Cassidy created “THE EVENT” music festival annual fundraiser that featured country music star Tyler Rich.
- Oversaw the construction of their state of the art two-story headquarter building in 2015.
- Served as the honorary commander for Beale Air Force Base, California Credit Union League’s chairman, annual Children’s Miracle Network Wine Auction Chair, which raises over $1 million each year for the state’s children’s hospitals and CCUL Political Action Committee Chair.
Cassidy, 62, will continue to work on charitable causes throughout the state, as well as regional economic development efforts that improve the quality of life for individuals, families and businesses throughout Northern California, the credit union said.
New President in Texas
Separately, in Corinth, Texas, the $1.42-billion DATCU, has named Melanie Vest as its new president after that title was recently split from CEO by the CU’s board. Vest has previously served as EVP/CFO. Glen McKenzie will remain the credit union’s CEO.
“Melanie has been a superior leader and an instrumental part of our success and growth throughout her career here at DATCU,” McKenzie said in a statement. “The fact that she has grown from a UNT student working as a part-time teller to now becoming the president is really remarkable. This speaks to her tenacity and dedication. Having spent her entire career at DATCU, I have no doubt that she will continue to accomplish great things for the credit union. It’s a privilege to continue working with Melanie and the entire DATCU family.”
Vest joined DATCU in April 2002 as a part-time teller while a student at the University of North Texas and has held multiple positions during her career.