BAXTER, Minn. –Three credit unions have named new CEOs, including one CU’s chairman who is leading the organization on an interim basis.
In Minnesota, the $660-million Mid Minnesota FCU Bob Gerads is now leading the organization, succeeding the retiring Chuck Albrecht.
Gerads has nearly 25 years of experience in banking and credit union management and operations, most recently with Falcon National Bank where he served as chief deposit officer. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Business Management from Minnesota State University (Moorhead).
“As chief executive officer, I will strive to create strategic partnerships, and build a collaborative environment committed to delivering an outstanding member experience through each of our delivery channels,” Gerads said in a statement. “I am humbled and excited about this next chapter of my career. I am eager to build on the traditions of Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union and continue the commitment to serving the full financial needs of our members.”
New CEO at White Sands FCU
In Las Cruces, N.M., the $419.5-million White Sands FCU has named Phillip Fifield to succeed the retiring William Jacobs as president/CEO. Fifield has been serving as executive vice president.
During his tenure, Jacobs oversaw growth in assets to $418-million from $127-million. Under his leadership, the credit union’s assets more than doubled from $127 million to $418 million, and the member base grew to more than 35,000.
“Serving as White Sands Federal Credit Union’s president and CEO has been an incredible 25-year journey,” said Jacobs. “During my tenure, White Sands Federal Credit Union has helped our members move closer to achieving their financial hopes and dreams. I have been so blessed to have had the opportunity of working with so many wonderful members, staff, and volunteers. Thank you is not strong enough for the time I have had at the credit union.”
Interim CEO in California
In Pleasanton, Calif., the $545-million SafeAmerica CU has named Frank Zampella, its current chairman of the board, to serve as interim CEO following the retirement of Tom Graves as president and CEO.
Zampella has been a member of SafeAmerica for 40 years and has served on the board for the last 36 years, the credit union said.
"I feel it is important for SafeAmerica to provide the best possible service to all its members with a variety of financial products that meets all their needs,” Zampella said in a statement. “My 50+ years of financial experience has been beneficial when reviewing the credit union's financial statements, virtual service programs, new products or technical product proposals, and to guide and maintain a financially stable credit union while protecting the assets of the credit union.”