WORCESTER, Mass. — Webster First FCU has named a new president and CEO to succeed the retiring Michael Lussier.
The $1.48-billion WFFCU has tapped its current vice president of risk management, John Thomasian, to led the organization.
“Michael’s notice of retirement allowed the board of directors time to establish a CEO selection committee to review its succession plan, hire a new CEO as well as assist in the transition from Michael to John Thomasian,” Chairman Christopher Daoust said in a statement. “The board of directors thanks Mike for his leadership and outstanding service to WFFCU and the credit union movement. We wish him all the best, secure in the knowledge that WFFCU has the capabilities and strategic focus to continue delivering quality service for its credit union members.”
Thomasian is a graduate of Nichols College with a degree in finance and accounting. He is also a graduate of NAFCU’s Management Development Institute and served as a member of NAFCU’s political action committee. He has previously held positions as a CFO and a chairman of the Town of New Braintree’s Finance Committee, and was a recipient of BusinessWest’s 40 Under Forty award in 2021.
‘Opened My Eyes’
“Working alongside Mike for the past 14 years has really opened my eyes to how influential of a leader he has been. Not only to Webster First, but to the entire credit union movement…” said Thomasian in a statement. “He had a vision for Webster First to invest in its branch network, digital products, and employees… By doing so he has made Webster First one of the top performing credit unions in the state of Massachusetts. Having Mike as a mentor has allowed me to observe the fundamental foundations modeled that made him a successful CEO. I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve as Webster First’s next president/CEO and look forward to expanding and enhancing the integrities it was built upon.”
Thomasian will become CEO on May 1.
Immense Gratitude
Meanwhile, in reflecting on his time at Webster First, Lussier said, “I’m filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and talented team…I have always believed in providing exceptional customer service, implementing innovative solutions, and going above and beyond to support our members. Our entire team at Webster First FCU has done the same. The collaborative spirit that permeates our workplace is a testament to the caliber of individuals who make up our organization.”
“I couldn’t be more delighted to see John Thomasian step into this role. John’s leadership, integrity, and passion for our credit union are evident to all who know him,” Lussier continued. “I have every confidence that under his guidance, Webster First Federal Credit Union will continue to thrive and uphold its reputation as a beacon of excellence in our community…”
Webster First has more than 91,000 members.
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