PLEASANTON, Calif. Patelco Credit Union said Erin Mendez, a senior executive with 35 years of experience in the financial services sector and other industries, has been named its new CEO.
Mendez replaces Ken Burns, who announced his departure from the $4-billion credit union in May. Mendez begins her tenure in mid-August.
Mendez moves over to Patelco from her position as EVP and chief operating officer at $9.7-billion Schools First Federal Credit Union, Santa Ana, Calif. She has spent more than 25 years in the financial services industry, including 10 years at School First. Mendez previously served as SVP of retail banking at American Savings Bank, SVP of operations and chief information officer for Western Financial Bank, and chief technology officer for Health Net, Inc.
“Patelco has long been known as an innovative leader in the financial services industry and I am honored to join the ranks of the prestigious few who have shaped Patelco into the trusted, growing financial institution it is today,” Mendez said in a released statement. “I will be a diligent advocate for the safety and betterment of our members’ financial lives.”
Peter Hanelt, chairman of the board at Patelco for the past two years, said, “Throughout our nationwide search, Erin Mendez stood out as a trusted, seasoned leader with a passion for serving members. She possesses a balanced mix of leadership experience, proven and tested financial acumen and innovative thinking that will provide the blend of practical skills and vision we view as vital to the future of Patelco.”
