CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Freedom First Federal Credit Union is seeking a forward-thinking, mission-driven President and CEO to lead the organization through a new era of growth, innovation, and community impact. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), the next CEO will champion our purpose-driven mission while delivering strong financial performance and enhancing the lives of our members. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in commercial lending and portfolio growth that is essential to supporting our commitment to local economic development and financial empowerment.

What You Will Do:

• Set a bold strategic vision that aligns with our culture, values, and operational goals, ensuring long-term growth and financial sustainability.
• Lead through innovation by embracing digital transformation and emerging technologies like AI to deliver forward-thinking products and services that enhance member satisfaction.
• Engage deeply in the community by living within one hour of our Roanoke, VA headquarters, building trusted relationships with local leaders, non-profits, and government agencies to maintain our CDFI certification and elevate regional development.
• Inspire a collaborative culture by prioritizing employee development, fostering innovation, and empowering teams to perform at their highest potential.
• Represent Freedom First as a leader in financial services by building partnerships with regulators, industry leaders, and technology innovators.

Who You Are:

• A strategic and adaptable executive who thrives in fast-changing environments and leads with integrity, optimism, and vision.
• A community-minded leader who believes in the power of in-person connection and is committed to the people and communities we serve.
• A culture builder who values diverse perspectives, encourages open communication, and drives high performance across the organization.
• A financial steward and innovator capable of balancing strong financial oversight with bold, future-focused thinking.

Why Freedom First:
As a CDFI, we are deeply invested in making a meaningful difference for our members and communities. Serving people and businesses in the Roanoke, New River, and Shenandoah Valley as well as throughout Central and Southwest Virginia. Freedom First is proud to be recognized as a Juntos Avanzamos credit union by Inclusiv. Together We Advance is a designation for credit unions committed to serving and empowering Latino and Hispanic consumers.

Leadership & Industry Experience

• Ten to 15 years of executive leadership overseeing a significant portion of a financial institution, or related experience (community banking experience preferred).
• Ten years of experience in commercial lending, either in production and/or credit roles. 
• Proven ability to lead, develop, and coach employees, fostering a positive organizational culture through collaboration with the board, executive team, employees, members, and the community.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, operational leadership, and the execution of initiatives that meet or exceed board goals.
• Understanding of community development banking strategies and programs designed to elevate the financial well-being of consumers and businesses, particularly the underserved.
• The CEO is expected to reside within one hour of the credit union’s headquarters in order to best serve the organization and community.

Education

• A bachelor’s degree in business management is preferred, but equivalent experience will be considered. An advanced degree is preferred, as is a demonstration of ongoing education and certifications relevant to a financial institution's leadership.

Freedom First Federal Credit Union (Freedom First) was started by seven members with $40 in 1956. It was first known as Roanoke General Electric Employees Federal Credit Union and has since grown to over $1.2 billion in assets. The credit union continues to diversify into several areas and, in 2022, formed a partnership with Carilion Clinic, Delta Dental of Virginia, and the City of Roanoke Public Schools.
Base Salary: $525,000-$600,000

ABOUT DDJ MYERS, an ALM First Company
DDJ Myers is the executive search consultant for this organization. Our expertise is in supporting leadership teams in sustainable practices for high-performing organizations through succession planning, leadership development programs, executive coaching, board governance and renewal, and executive search. Please learn more about us at www.ddjmyers.com.