California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions Announce Jeremy Empol as President and CEO

Jeremy Empol

​California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions today announced that Jeremy Empol has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer, effective March 9, 2026. The appointment was made by the Boards of Directors of both organizations following a comprehensive national search conducted by Korn Ferry.
 
The Boards expressed strong confidence that Empol’s leadership experience, strategic vision, and deep commitment to the credit union movement position him well to guide the organizations into their next chapter.
 
Empol brings extensive experience in public affairs, advocacy, and industry engagement. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Industry Outreach for the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, where he led government relations and education initiatives across California, Nevada, and Arizona. Prior to that role, he spent more than 16 years as Senior Vice President of Federal Government Affairs for the California & Nevada Credit Union Leagues, advocating on behalf of credit unions and their members at the federal level.
 
Earlier in his career, Empol worked on Capitol Hill for Members of Congress including Representatives Brad Sherman, Bob Filner, and Max Sandlin, and supported federal campaigns for Senator Barbara Boxer and former Vice President Al Gore. He holds a Master of Arts in Government from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis.
 
“Jeremy’s experience, leadership, and deep commitment to our industry make him the right choice to lead California’s Credit Unions into the future,” said Donna Bland, Chair of California’s Credit Unions and President and CEO of Golden 1 Credit Union. “His vision and energy will help credit unions continue to thrive while delivering exceptional value to their members.”
 
Scott Arkills, Chair of Nevada’s Credit Unions and President and CEO of Silver State Schools Credit Union, added, “We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy to this role. His collaborative approach and deep understanding of the credit union landscape will strengthen the partnership between Nevada and California credit unions and support innovation and growth across both states.”
 
“It has been a privilege to serve in the interim role, and I am excited to welcome Jeremy as he steps into this position,” said Lucy Ito, Interim President and CEO of California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions. “His passion for credit unions and his extensive experience will ensure a seamless transition and a strong future for our members and staff.”
 
Under Empol’s leadership, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions will continue advancing the credit union movement through advocacy, collaboration, and innovative solutions that support members and communities across both states.

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