RAYMORE, Mo.–Two new CEOs have been named in separate states.
In Missouri, the $134.2-million R-G FCU has selected Steve Deere to lead the organization effective July 1. Deere succeeds Joye Conklin, who will retire at the end of June after over 29 years of dedicated service, including her tenure as CEO since 2016, the credit union said.
Deere began his career at R-G Federal in 2012 as information technology manager/financial officer and was named CFO in 2016.
“His tenure as CFO was marked by significant achievements, including overseeing the growth of the credit union’s assets from $76.7 million to more than $136 million and spearheading key initiatives such as the digital transformation of financial services and expansion of physical branches, the credit union said.
Educational Background
Deere holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Park University, a bachelor’s degree in information technology from DeVry University, and a master’s in information systems management from Keller Graduate School of Management.
R-G FCU said Deere is deeply involved in the community, having served on numerous boards and committees.
"It is both an honor and a privilege to be appointed as the next leader of R-G Federal Credit Union,” said Deere. “I am immensely grateful for the foundation Joye has laid and am committed to continuing our path of innovation and excellence."
Retiring CEO Reflects
Conklin joined R-G Federal Credit Union more than 29 years ago and has served in various capacities before being named CEO in 2016.
Under her leadership, the credit union has experienced tremendous growth and stability, navigating through economic changes and technological advancements to better serve its members, R-G FCU said.
"Serving R-G Federal Credit Union has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Conklin. “I am delighted to pass the torch to Steve, who I believe has the vision and dedication to lead our credit union into a bright future."
New CEO in Tennessee
Separately, in Memphis, Tenn., the $93.3-million Shelby County FCU has named Raffael (Ralph) Crockett as its new CEO.
“Crockett brings over three decades of extensive experience in the credit union sector, marked by a passion for community service and a proven track record of transformative leadership,” the credit union said.
Prior to joining Shelby County FCU, Crockett served as a problem case officer with NCUA and also as CEO of BrightStar Credit Union in Hollywood, Fla.
“Under his dynamic leadership at BrightStar, the institution achieved exceptional milestones, including a remarkable 200% growth in assets, restoration of net worth to stellar levels, branded retail look and name change, and a doubling of profits, defying economic downturns,” SCFCU said.
Crockett was named by the South Florida Business Journal as a Broward County Ultimate CEO and a Top Power Leader in Banking & Finance, which was recognized by former Florida Gov. Rick Scott.
Academic Background
“Crockett attended Mississippi State University and is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Rust College in Business Administration with a focus on accounting. His proven visionary approach to leadership extended beyond financial success. He spearheaded initiatives that earned BrightStar recognition as the South Florida Credit Union of the Year in 2011. His commitment to community engagement was exemplified through BrightStar’s support for financial literacy programs in Broward Schools, earning commendation from the State of Florida’s Department of Education. Colleagues and industry peers commend Ralph for his unwavering integrity, humility, and dedication to serving others. Because of his collaborative spirit and tireless work ethic,” the CU said.
‘Deeply Honored’
“I am deeply honored to lead Shelby County Federal Credit Union,” Crockett said in a statement. “I am committed to building upon the credit union’s legacy of service and innovation, and I look forward to working closely with our members, staff, and community partners to achieve our shared goals.”