TALLAHASSEE, Fla.–The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates has named John Bratsakis, currently the president and CEO of the Maryland and DC Credit Union Association, as its new CEO.
The League of Credit Unions serves CUs in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Virginia. In March, the organization announced that its president, Samantha A.M. Beeler, would be remaining in that role as it launched a search for a new CEO, a move it said followed a “series of successful governance enhancements implemented over the past two years that have strengthened leadership alignment, member feedback, and strategic focus.”
“Throughout his career, Bratsakis has successfully led trade associations and financial institutions, including most recently serving as president and CEO of the MD|DC Credit Union Association,” The League said in a statement. “He brings more than 35 years of executive leadership experience and a distinguished history of driving membership growth and engagement, strengthening advocacy efforts, and developing innovative business solutions that support credit unions and the communities they serve.”
History at Associations, CUs
Bratsakis was named president of the MDDCCUA in October of 2011. Prior to that he was SVP-business development with BCU in Chicago, and prior to that CEO of Community Trust Credit Union from July 1997-January 2007, according to his LinkedIn profile.
“John is a proven leader with an exceptional track record of advancing the credit union mission, building meaningful relationships and delivering results,” The League Chair Richard “Rick” J. Skaggs said in a statement.
The League said that as president and CEO of the MD|DC Credit Union Association, Bratsakis led significant growth in member affiliation and engagement, expanded strategic partnerships, and developed innovative programs to meet evolving industry needs.
Cofounder of Plexcity
“He also co-founded Plexcity, a first-of-its-kind back-office collaboration that now serves dozens of associations, foundations, small businesses and credit unions nationwide, helping to increase operational efficiency and strengthen member service capabilities,” the League added.
Bratsakis currently serves as chair of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) and has held numerous leadership roles across national credit union organizations, charitable initiatives and industry boards. His advocacy experience spans multiple states and jurisdictions, where he has represented credit union interests before lawmakers, regulators, and key stakeholders, the League added.
‘Honored to Join’
“I am honored to join The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates and serve the credit unions, employees and communities that make this organization so impactful,” Bratsakis said in a statement. “Credit unions have never been more important to the financial wellbeing of consumers and small businesses. I look forward to working alongside our talented team, dedicated volunteer leaders, member credit unions and business partners to advance our shared mission, strengthen our influence, and create new opportunities for continued growth and success.”
Speaking to his current role, Bratsakis added, “Serving this association and the credit unions of Maryland, DC and Delaware has been one of the greatest honors and privileges of my career,” said Bratsakis. “But I’ve never seen this as my work — it’s our work. The relationships, the engagement, and the culture of people helping people belong to our Board, our staff, and our members. I’m grateful I get to continue serving alongside them through this transition, and I want our credit unions to know that the team they trust remains right here for them.”
Bratsakis will officially assume the role of CEO on August 3. The search was handled by Sterling | Martin.
MDDCUA Plans For Transition
“This is an exacting opportunity for John, and we are grateful for his leadership, dedication, and role in creating a culture of success,” said Kristen Shultz, president and CEO of Spectra Credit Union and chair of the MDDCCUA board. “As we move through this leadership transition, the Board is committed to a thorough and intentional process for determining the path forward, with the interests of our member credit unions front and center.”
The MDDCCUA said it will remain focused on continuity, stability, and the association’s ongoing mission of serving, supporting, and advocating for member credit unions as it carefully evaluates next steps.
America’s Credit Unions Responds
“Congratulations to John Bratsakis on being named CEO of The League of Credit Unions and Affiliates. John is a champion for the credit union movement. He is a relentless, passionate advocate and his commitment to the movement’s mission shows up in the many charitable causes he supports. I look forward to continuing to work alongside John in his new role to strengthen our unified efforts and advance credit unions,” Scott Simpson, America’s Credit Unions president/CEO, said in a statement.
