CHICAGO–Two credit unions have named new leadership.
In Chicago, the $20-billion Alliant CU has selected Mike Dobbins to lead the organization. Dobbins succeeds interim CEO Ken Schaafsma, who will continue as chief risk officer with the credit union.
Dobbins has more than 30 years of financial services and fintech experience, with a “track record of driving innovation, building high-performing teams and leading organizations through transformative growth,” according to 913,000-member Alliant CU.
He joins Alliant from Framework Venture Partners, where he served as venture partner and senior advisor. Prior to that, he held executive roles at RBC, Canada’s largest bank—including EVP of personal finance and head of U.S Banking, and chief strategy and corporate development officer and founder of RBC Ventures.
Other Roles
Prior to that, Dobbins also served in a variety of roles at Capital One in the U.S., ultimately serving as EVP-consumer banking.
Throughout his career, Dobbins has also served on several boards including Futurpreneur Canada, Right to Play and Habitat for Humanity, according to Alliant.
“I’m honored to join Alliant at such an exciting time for the organization,” said Dobbins in a statement. “I’ve long admired Alliant’s reputation for innovation, service and member-centricity. I look forward to building on the strong foundation Ken and the leadership team have laid and working alongside the talented individuals across Alliant to shape the future of digital banking.”
Appreciation for Interim CEO
In a statement, the ACU board also expressed its gratitude to Ken Schaafsma for his leadership as Interim CEO over the past eight months.
“Ken guided the organization through a pivotal period with clarity, steadiness, and deep care for our members and our people,” Chairman Lee Achord said in a statement. “Alliant is in a stronger position today because of his stewardship. We thank Ken for his continued service and are pleased that he will remain a key member of the executive team.”
A ’Privilege’
Added Schaafsma in a statement, “It has been a privilege to lead Alliant as Interim CEO over the past several months. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together and deeply grateful to the board and my colleagues for their trust and support. I look forward to working closely with Mike to ensure a smooth transition and continue advancing Alliant’s mission for our members.”
New CEO at Dakota West
Separately, in Watford N.D., Dakota Wets Union said it has named Jeff Reiter as its new CEO.
Reiter previously served as chief credit officer with the $339.6-million Dakota West.
“With a distinguished career in banking and finance, Reiter brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the organization,” the credit union said in a statement.
Began as Bank Examiner
A native of Billings, Mont., Reiter began his banking career as a bank examiner with the FDIC before transitioning into private banking at institutions in Montana, Wyoming and North Dakota.
“…His expertise in financial strategy and risk management played a pivotal role in the organization’s success,” the credit union said. “Reiter’s leadership and commitment to excellence have positioned him as a key figure in the credit union’s continued growth and innovation.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Reiter spent five years as a Realtor in Watford City before returning to financial services.
‘Perfect Fit’
“We are thrilled to promote Jeff Reiter to the role of CEO,” Samantha Yost, HR manager, said in a statement. “Jeff’s extensive background in banking, leadership experience, and dedication to our members make him the perfect fit to guide Dakota West Credit Union into the future.”
Dakota West has just over 7,000 members.
