Succession planning

After 53 years of service, Gene Brody passes the gavel to EVP Anthony Grigos. Brody will continue to serve as board treasurer and chief strategy officer.

One VP earns a special recognition from a local organization and other awards, new hires and promotions at credit unions across the country.

Three years after retiring, Darrell Merkel is returning to SAFE FCU, this time as CEO.

Credit unions across the country are looking for talent, both internally and externally, leading to a bevy of promotions, appointments and new hires.

Jefferson Harralson, the Georgia company's new chief financial officer, had covered banks at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods for 15 years.

John Fawcett, previously CFO at Citizens Financial in Providence, R.I., will succeed Carol Hayles.

The library will be part of the CUNA Research Center and is intended as the "exclusive physical and digital repository" of U.S. credit union history.

Ashton Ryan, who had been removed as CEO in December, had been serving as its president. The New Orleans company also agreed to sell preferred stock to directors to help it make payments tied to its subordinated debt.

The San Antonio company named Chad Borton, previously head of consumer banking at Fifth Third Bancorp in Cincinnati, for the role. Fifth Third has named Philip McHugh as his successor.

'Tis the season for annual meetings and board elections, as several CUs reveal new directors and more new hires, promotions and awards.