WESTconsin Credit Union Names Successor CEO to the Retiring Lora Benrud

MENOMONIE, Wis.–WESTconsin Credit Union has named a new president/CEO to succeed Lora Benrud, who is to retire in September.

The $1.93-billion credit union said Jim Wookey has been selected to lead the organization.

Wookey began his WESTconsin career in 1994 as a consumer and mortgage loan officer in its River Falls, Wis., office, before serving as office manager and vice president of the New Richmond and Hudson offices.

He was named chief operations officer in 2011.

“Having been a part of WESTconsin for 30 years, I have witnessed the strength of our mission of empowering members and communities with the resources to achieve financial wellness, and I am honored to continue that as CEO,” said Wookey in a statement. “I am grateful to the board of directors and my fellow leadership team for the trust placed in me, and I look forward to leading our dedicated team of employees and continuing to support the 85-year legacy we’ve built for our members.”

Began as a Teller

Benrud has served as CEO for the past 10 years and plans to step down on Sept. 6.

She began her career at WESTconsin Credit Union as a part-time teller in 1984, and subsequently advanced through the organization, including serving as VP-human resources and as CFO.

She was named CEO in August 2014, becoming the fourth president in the company’s history.

“I am both excited and grateful to retire from such a wonderful organization full of caring and engaged employees and board members,” Benrud said in a statement. “Looking back, I never would have imagined after graduating from college that I would find a lifelong career with a company I hold dear to my heart,” said Benrud. “I am proud of how our credit union has helped our members and communities and have great confidence in the bright future that is ahead for WESTconsin under Jim’s leadership. It has been an honor to be a part of the remarkable credit union industry.”

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