NEWPORT NEWS, Va.–Langley FCU has named a new president and CEO, while another long-time CEO in New York has announced plans to retire.
In Virginia, the $5.6-billion Langley Federal Credit Union has tapped Gaurav Bhatia to lead the organization, succeeding Tom Ryan who is retiring at the end of the year after 13 years in the role.
Bhatia has more than 20 years of executive experience in financial services, technology and business transformation and most recently served as chief marketing, digital and experience officer at PenFed Credit Union in Tysons, Va. He has held senior roles at AARP, Capital One, NewDay USA, Sabre Holdings and NIIT Technologies, serving clients in the travel and financial services sectors.
Bhatia was recently featured in the CU Daily here talking deposit strategies during the recent Catalyst Corporate Summit
“Mr. Gaurav Bhatia was selected from an outstanding pool of candidates for his visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to member-centric growth,” Audrey Douglas-Cooke, chair of the credit union’s board of directors, said in a statement. “We are confident that under his leadership, Langley will continue to thrive, innovate, and serve our members with excellence.”
Honored to Join
In a statement, Bhatia said he was honored to join Langley FCU.
“Langley has been recognized as a leader in the credit union industry for decades and I look forward to building on the strong foundation Tom and the leadership team have built,” he said in a statement. “I also look forward to working with all the talented employees to serve our members.”
In the statement, Douglas-Cooke praised Ryan’s leadership and wished him the best in his retirement.
Langley FCU has approximately 700 employees and 20 branch locations in Virginia and North Carolina.
Halstead Retiring at First New York
In Albany, N.Y., Lucy Halstead, CEO of the $504-million First New York Federal Credit Union said she plans to retire in early 2026 after two decades in the post. The credit union has launched a search for a successor.
Halstead joined First New York in 1998 as VP-operations.
“Her leadership and strategic vision have driven the credit union’s growth and success,” First New York said in a statement. “Under her guidance, First New York has expanded its membership base, enhanced its product offerings, and strengthened its commitment to the community.”
Halstead was named SVP/COO in 2008 and president and CEO in 2013.
‘Exceptional Leader’
“Lucy has been an exceptional leader and a dedicated advocate for our members,” Chair Brian Krawiecki said in a statement. “We are incredibly grateful for her contributions and wish her all the best in her retirement.”
‘Honor to Serve’
“It has been an honor to serve as President and CEO of First New York,” said Halstead in a statement. “It’s my favorite job I ever had. I am proud of our accomplishments together and confident that the credit union will continue to thrive. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the board of directors, the dedicated team members, and our valued members for their unwavering support.”
