TAMPA, Fla. — GTE Financial Credit Union has named three people to new executive positions.
Saidy Barredo has been promoted to VP CFC Regional Manager. Barredo began her career in Miami and brings more than 23 years of experience across retail leadership, human resources, and financial services. She has developed strong expertise in team development, operations, and performance, along with experience in sales, strategy, and employee development. She has grown through multiple leadership roles across commercial lending, business banking operations, title services, and branch leadership. In her current role as VP CFC Regional Manager, Barredo oversees multiple branches, focusing on developing teams, strengthening member relationships, and driving growth across the markets she serves.
Channing D. Thornton has joined GTE Financial as Managing Director of Retail Member Sales. Thornton started his financial services career in 1990 with Barnett Bank of Tampa and spent the last 26 years of his career with Regions Bank in roles including Branch Manager, Consumer Banking Manager, Consumer Banking Executive and Community Market Sales Process Executive. He joined GTE Financial in February 2026. In his role as Managing Director of Retail Member Sales, Thornton focuses on meeting member needs, developing associates, driving growth in financial centers, and maintaining a high level of engagement at both the member and associate level.
Sirena Lewis serves as VP CFC Regional Manager Member Sales. Lewis brings more than 25 years of experience in commercial and retail banking, including leadership roles at prominent financial institutions in the Tampa Bay area. She has led large teams, developed strategic growth initiatives, and built strong client and community relationships. In her role, Lewis oversees regional member sales performance, coaches and mentors teams, strengthens sales strategies, and ensures an exceptional experience for GTE Financial members
“At GTE Financial, success is hinged on our ability to grow meaningful relationships with members and in the community,” said Manny Aguilar, Senior Vice President, Chief Experience Officer. “Having just celebrated 90 years of service, our enhanced retail team is excited to meet people where they are, to have real financial conversations face-to-face and to elevate our branch experience.”
