AMES, Iowa – Scott Zahnle, president and CEO of the $717-million Greater Iowa Credit Union, has announced his plans to retire on Jan. 29, 2027, after 15 years of leadership with the credit union. A successor has been named
GICU said that since joining the credit union in 2012, Zahnle has “helped strengthen and grow the organization while preserving the culture and member-focused approach at the heart of the credit union.”
“It has been an honor to lead such an outstanding organization with exceptional employees and a supportive board of directors,” Zahnle said in a statement. “I will miss working alongside them each day, but I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited about the future of Greater Iowa Credit Union.”
Successor Named
Following what it called a “deliberate succession-planning process” led by its board, Greater Iowa said it has selected Chief Operations Officer Julie Willse to succeed Zahnle as president and CEO Willse will officially assume the role upon Zahnle’s retirement in January.
“One of the board’s most important responsibilities is ensuring strong leadership for the future of the credit union,” Chair Dr. Michael Crum said in a statement. “This transition reflects years of planning and preparation. We are grateful for Scott’s years of service and the strong foundation he has helped build.”
The credit union said Willse has been a key member of the senior leadership team and has played an important role in operational leadership, strategic planning, and organizational growth.
‘Honored’ by Opportunity
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve as Greater Iowa Credit Union’s next president and CEO,” said Willse said in a statement. “We have an outstanding team, a dedicated board of directors, and a strong foundation built through years of thoughtful leadership. I look forward to building on that foundation and continuing our commitment to helping members achieve greater financial success.”
Greater Iowa said Zahnle and Willse have worked closely together for years and will continue collaborating throughout the transition process to ensure a seamless leadership handoff.
The credit union has more than 37,000 members.
