ST. PAUL, Minn.–Patrick Pierce, the president and CEO of City & County Credit Union who also serves as the chair of America’s Credit Unions, has announced plans to retire. The credit union has named current EVP-Operations Thomas Coulter as Pierce’s successor.
Pierce said he plans to step down from the $1.15-bilion credit union in April of 2026 after 24 years leading the organization.
Pierce has served on the CUNA/America’s Credit Unions board since 2017 and on its executive committee since 2021.
‘Remarkable Growth & Change’
In a statement, the credit union said, “Since joining the credit union in 2001, Pat has guided City & County Credit Union through remarkable growth and change. With his leadership the credit union expanded service to an eight-county community charter, broadened the membership base from 34,000 to now over 62,000 members, and enhanced the credit union’s ability to serve members and reputation by achieving $1.1 billion in assets.”
Added Board Chair Lou Bruno in a statement, “Pat built his career on the belief that financial services are about more than just numbers. They are about empowering every member to make their financial dreams a reality by getting to know their name, their story, and being their partner through every celebration and challenge. Pat embodies the credit union movement, and that legacy will never be forgotten. His vision, compassion, and dedication to the ‘People Helping People’ philosophy will continue to guide us into the future.”
‘Led With Heart’
City & County said Pierce “has always led with heart” and supported employees and members in time of need.
“This deep commitment to service and progress has been the foundation of his visionary leadership throughout his career,” the credit union said. “In Minnesota, Pat played a pivotal role in the historic 1997 merger that created the Minnesota Credit Union Network, and his efforts didn’t stop there. He also led initiatives to modernize state charter legislation and champion Prize-Linked Savings accounts—key moves that have expanded financial access and positively impacted the lives of thousands across the state.”
The credit union further noted Pierce served as secretary and chairman during the merger of CUNA and NAFCU to create America’s Credit Unions.
‘Honor of My Life’
“It has been the honor of my life to serve City & County Credit Union for the past 24 years,” said Pierce in a statement. “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but even more grateful for the relationships built along the way—with colleagues, members, and communities, who trusted us to walk alongside them & help transform their financial dreams into bold realities.
“It has also been a privilege to serve the credit union movement more broadly, helping advance the cooperative legacy that ensures every member and community has access to affordable financial solutions,” Pierce continued. “I have seen firsthand how credit unions can change lives in my own family and I know the future leaders in the industry will continue to adapt and innovate to empower generations to come.”
‘Tremendous Leadership’
“On behalf of America’s Credit Unions, I want to congratulate Pat Pierce on his well-deserved retirement and thank him for his tremendous leadership,” said America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Jim Nussle in a statement. “From guiding City & County Credit Union’s growth to serving the national credit union movement as chairman of our board, Pat has always led with vision, humility, and a deep belief in the cooperative model. His steady leadership was instrumental in uniting our industry and strengthening our foundation for the future. We are grateful for his service and wish Pat and his family all the best in this next chapter.”
The New CEO
Pierce’s successor, Thomas Coulter, has been with City & County for 19 years.
“Tom brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to City & County’s mission,” the credit union said. “His leadership and vision will ensure City & County continues to grow, build on its successes, and inspire members and the community to transform their financial dreams into bold realities. Pat will continue to serve as CEO until his retirement, with Tom stepping in as acting President during this time.”
