Panama City, FL – Innovations Financial Credit Union is proud to announce that Kristie McLane, Director of Community Business Development, has been selected by the Florida’s Great Northwest (FGNW) Foundation to participate in Class IV of the Leadership Northwest Florida program.
Leadership Northwest Florida is a prestigious seven-month educational experience designed to strengthen regional collaboration through community, content, and connection. Participants will engage with leaders from diverse industries across Northwest Florida to explore key areas shaping the region’s future: Business Vitality, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Infrastructure, Talent, and Quality of Place.
“Leadership Northwest Florida is dedicated to developing a strong pipeline of engaged, empowered leaders,” said Jennifer Conoley, President and CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest & FGNW Foundation. “Kristie was selected for demonstrating the ideal characteristics sought after in program participants and her ability to drive positive change for the region.”
McLane shared her excitement for the opportunity: “A powerful leader is a lifelong student—curious enough to listen, humble enough to learn, and bold enough to grow. For me, Leadership Northwest is the next step: embracing new experiences, building meaningful relationships, and growing into a more dynamic leader for my team and community. I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and carry forward lessons that will shape me into a stronger leader.”
David Powell, Senior Vice President / Chief Operating Officer at Innovations, added: “Kristie’s energy and passion for building strong community connections make her the perfect fit for Leadership Northwest Florida. We’re proud to see her representing Innovations and know the experience will only enhance her ability to serve our members and community.”
The program kicks off with an opening retreat in November and continues through May 2026, offering participants a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities facing Northwest Florida.
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About Leadership Northwest Florida
Leadership Northwest Florida equips professionals with the knowledge, network, and skills to foster long-term influence and collaboration for the betterment of the region.
About Florida’s Great Northwest Foundation
The Florida’s Great Northwest Foundation works to improve business growth and economic competitiveness across the 13-county region of Northwest Florida. In addition to the Leadership Northwest Florida program, the Foundation also supports Northwest Florida FORWARD, a regional strategy for economic transformation
About Innovations Financial Credit Union
Innovations Financial Credit Union has served its members since 1952 by helping them to build a sound financial future. Presently, Innovations has over 26,300 members and manages assets of more than $620 million. Innovations Financial Credit Union serves the financial needs of people who live, work, attend school, or worship in Bay, Holmes, Washington, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Walton, Okaloosa, Franklin, and Liberty Counties. For more information about Innovations Financial Credit Union, please contact us at 850.233.4400 or visit www.InnovationsFCU.org.
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