After a distinguished 38-year tenure at Caltech Employees Federal Credit Union (CEFCU), President and Chief Executive Officer Rich Harris will retire on April 1, 2024.
As the longest-serving CEO in CEFCU's history, Rich has exemplified unwavering dedication, passion, and profound leadership, strategically steering the Credit Union towards consistently providing unsurpassed financial value and member service. Under his leadership, assets have grown from $92 million in 1986 to over $2 billion today.
During his tenure, Rich has implemented operational and financial improvements for the organization’s sustainability and stability. He has opened new office locations and diversified the Credit Union’s products and services, all the while staying true to the exclusive Caltech field of membership and unique business model that serves the best financial interest of its member/owners. Additionally, his pioneering initiative, “Massive Action”, has set the standard for exceeding member service excellence, ensuring CEFCU’s position as the valued and trusted choice for its 38,000 members.
Rich's service and vision have been instrumental in earning CEFCU widespread acclaim in both the industry and the community. Within the industry, Rich generously devoted his time and expertise to the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU), being elected to serve as a Board Member three times by NAFCU member credit unions from the Western United States, spanning the years 2010 to 2019. His contributions reached new heights when he assumed the role of Chairman of the NAFCU Board in 2017 and 2018, steering the organization through a progressive and positive period in both the organization and the industry. While serving NAFCU, Rich was a fervent advocate for credit unions, diligently building and maintaining pivotal relationships with top lawmakers, regulators, and administration officials, focusing on federal advocacy, tax exemption, and compliance assistance.
On a local scale, Rich demonstrated a profound commitment to community service and sponsor relations. He actively served volunteer leadership positions with the USC Verdugo Hills Hospital and the Crescenta Valley (Los Angeles County) Sheriff’s Support Group, earning him the recognition of the Kiwanis Club’s prestigious “La Cañadan of the Year" award. He also supported several Caltech initiatives, including the Caltech Y, The Caltech Associates, Caltech Public Events, and TEDxCaltech: The Brain.
"Rich’s vision and foresight guided CEFCU through historic challenges and great opportunities over the years. His invaluable contributions have had a transformative impact on CEFCU’s growth, enabling us to reach new heights while staying true to our core values," said Steve Proia, CEFCU Board Chair. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his leadership, vision, and tireless efforts, which have guided our organization toward the success it enjoys today."
Rich Harris will retire after a distinguished 38-year tenure at CEFCU.