NORTH LIBERTY, Iowa –Credit unions in Iowa and Washington State have named new CEOs.
In Iowa, the $11.3-billion GreenState Credit Union has named Vikram Israni as its new chef executive. Israni most recently served as CFO with Wings Credit Union in Apple Valley, Minn.
Israni has more than 25 years in the financial services industry and is “renowned for his deep understanding of financial dynamics and exceptional leadership abilities,” the credit union said.
He holds an MBA from the American Graduate School of International Management - Thunderbird and a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University.
‘Extensive Experience’
According to the credit union, Israni is celebrated for his extensive experience, which includes steering large teams and managing significant financial portfolios, indicating a proven track record of guiding credit unions to success.
"I am honored and eager to lead GreenState Credit Union on their next chapter,” said Israni. “With the organization’s tremendous reputation and commitment to its members and communities, this is an exciting opportunity. I look forward to working with the dedicated team at GreenState to continue delivering exceptional products and services as well as innovative solutions and savings to our members."
New CEO in Washington State
Meanwhile, in Olympia, Wash., the$121-million WCLA credit union has selected Charles Thompson to lead the organization, succeeding Brian Bahs, who has retired.
According to the credit union, Thompson has been acting in a transitional role since late 2021, serving as EVP and then president. Thompson’s career in financial services began as an active-duty U.S. Marine, during which he completed an undergraduate degree in business through the University of Maryland before joining the civilian sector and working in heavy equipment financing at Komatsu Financial.
Thompson earned a graduate degree at Northern Illinois University and the University of Chicago.
Thompson then relocated to the Pacific Northwest to join the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions, before then joining BECU.
‘Floored’ by Opportunity
“When I first learned of this opportunity, I was floored. I held Brian and WCLA CU in very high esteem, and my career aspirations were to put my experience and vision to use in leading a credit union that embodied the credit union mission, which I found,” said Thompson. “I’m very grateful for the time working with Brian during this transition, and to everyone who has played a role in preparing me for this opportunity. Working in this industry, with this community, is greatly rewarding and we’re very excited for the future here at WCLA CU.”
CEO Retires
Bahs retired at year-end after serving as president and CEO since 2004. He worked the length of his career in financial services, beginning with a tenure at Farm Credit Services of America, before occupying various roles at banks and credit unions in the Puget Sound area.
Following his time with Farm Credit, Bahs and his wife, Deborah, spent two years sailing their boat along the Pacific Seaboard, exploring the coast from Sitka, Alaska to the Sea of Cortez, before anchoring in Olympia, Wash. and calling it home.
During his tenure as CEO, Bahs oversaw growth to $120 million in assets from $8 million, also provided needed financing for logging equipment in the Pacific Northwest’s vital timber industry, working with companies primarily in Washington, but also Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, the credit union said.
Very Grateful
“We are incredibly grateful for Brian’s leadership and guidance over the years,” said Board Chairman Greg Horsley. “His commitment to the credit union’s membership, knowledge of the industry, and sheer will of purpose over 20 years as CEO have provided a great service to our industry and grown the credit union into the success story it is today. WCLA CU has helped facilitate the growth and success of many local businesses, which is a legacy to be proud of and one we are committed to upholding. We are especially pleased that he was able to find and mentor an excellent successor and are excited for our next phase with Charles.”
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