Julie Kirsch assumes the helm of the one billion dollar financial institution
SAN JOSE, CA (September 16, 2013) -- Following the recent announcement of the retirement of long time CEO Christopher Owen, Meriwest Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer, Julie Kirsch, as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Meriwest. Kirsch will assume the role of senior manager of the organization on September 16, 2013.
With over 25 years of technical/banking experience, Ms. Kirsch brings depth to the CEO role. In her tenure with Meriwest she has successfully lead the credit union through numerous transitions and innovations. Through her strong market analysis and expansion skills Ms. Kirsch navigated the credit union from a single sponsor to community based; this move also included a name change and branding efforts. Ms. Kirsch also spearheaded the development of the Credit Union’s innovative financial centers, which feature a design unique to financial services and a variety of self-service, high-tech amenities. Ms. Kirsch possesses a solid background in finance and business operations and as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, managed a significant part of the credit union’s operations.
“For years, we’ve been working together to ensure that we have a strong and balanced Senior Management Team,” said retiring CEO Chris Owen. “Our succession planning is developed to ensure Meriwest remains a sound, healthy institution with relevant products that meet all the financial needs of our members. I believe this mission will be carried forward under Julie’s direction.”
Meriwest’s Chairman, Charles Munch said “Julie’s leadership and financial business acumen at Meriwest over the years has been highly impressive. Her innovation, dedication, and ongoing development of the credit union and its operations is beyond comparison. I and the Board of Directors greatly appreciate what Julie has contributed in her current role, and look forward to her future direction and growth of Meriwest”.
“I am very pleased and honored that the Board of Directors looked within for their next CEO. This demonstrates a great deal of respect for the succession planning and process. I look forward to the continued journey to further strengthen Meriwest and to promote and protect the strong brand and relevancy that has been established in the eyes of our members, staff and community.” said Julie Kirsch.
About Meriwest Credit Union
Meriwest Credit Union, one of Silicon Valley’s largest and established financial institutions, has been providing proactive, personal, convenient and innovative financial services to over 72,000 businesses and families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Tucson, Arizona, since 1961. More information can be found at www.meriwest.com.