Pensacola, Florida (May 31, 2024) – PenAir Credit Union (PenAir) announces four new internal promotions and three new hires, all to the Assistant Vice President and Vice President level. The four promotions and new hires are part of PenAir’s larger 2024 growth and expansion plan after the brand’s most successful year in 2023.
The 2024 promotions and new hires include:
- Victoria Cheatham – Promoted to VP of Risk Management
- Debbie Kemp – Promoted to VP of Credit Resolution
- Whitney Smith – Promoted to AVP of Learning & Development
- Mark Vanderhaden – Promoted to AVP of Project Management
- Laura Barody – New Hire to AVP and Controller of Subsidiary Accounting
- Laurie Clearman – New Hire to AVP of Human Resources
- Eve P. Nimkar – New Hire to VP of Marketing
The new promotions have over 50 years of combined experience at PenAir. Smith, who has worked at PenAir for 13 years, has over 10 years in the Learning and Development industry and has helped create and deliver training for aspiring and current leaders. Cheatham has worked 17 years in various roles at PenAir, and now serves the company as the leader of the Risk Management and Cash Management Departments. Kemp, who has worked for PenAir for almost 22 years, also provides a unique perspective in her role as she has been a PenAir member for 40 years.
“I have been lucky enough to see PenAir transform over the years, and I can say that enhancing lives has always been at the forefront of our mission. As we continue to grow, it’s exciting to think about the people we will reach in new markets. It’s an honor to be a part of the PenAir family, and I look forward to continued success for years to come,” shares Cheatham.
PenAir’s new hires are all experienced veterans in their respective industries and are primed to continue the brand’s growth in 2024. Barody brings over 17 years of experience in accounting and will play a strategic role in the accounting and finance of PenAir’s CUSOs (Credit Union Service Organizations). Clearman joined PenAir having over 20 years of experience in human resources and business management. Nimkar comes to the PenAir team with over 25 years of experience in financial services and fintech marketing.
“I am thrilled to join the PenAir team, particularly during the brand’s time of growth,” says Nimkar. “As PenAir navigates the evolving and competitive credit union and banking landscapes, I look forward to continuing PenAir’s bold, differentiated brand presence and sustaining our momentum with a comprehensive marketing strategy.”
PenAir experienced unparalleled growth in 2023, including growth in assets from $2.3 billion to $3.07 billion, loan growth from $1.3 billion to $1.5 billion, and increased shares from $1.98 billion to $2.22 billion. Additionally, PenAir recently entered the Tallahassee and Panama City markets. With these strategic new hires and promotions, PenAir aims to continue its growth in 2024.
About PenAir Credit Union
Established in 1936, PenAir Credit Union has been a bold force for good, uniting community, resources, and impact. With assets surpassing $3.1 billion, PenAir is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members from Mobile, Alabama, to Tallahassee, Florida. As a member-owned institution, PenAir prioritizes individual needs, ensuring tailored solutions for financial success. Beyond financial services, PenAir actively contributes to community growth through education, development projects, and charitable endeavors. Learn more about how PenAir is building a legacy of financial empowerment and community enrichment at www.penair.org.
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