Lead a Mission. Transform a Community.

Afena Federal Credit Union (Afena) is seeking an inspiring, strategic, and community-focused executive to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer upon the retirement of its current CEO in late 2026/early 2027. This is an opportunity to lead a financially strong, mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that has been serving members since 1957. Afena exists to help individuals and families achieve financial wellness through compassionate service, innovative solutions, and a commitment to financial inclusion.

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Headquartered in Marion, Indiana, Afena is a nearly $100 million-assets credit union serving members throughout Grant, Wabash, Blackford, Jay, and Wells counties. The organization is recognized for its commitment to "people helping people," providing affordable financial services, financial coaching, and products designed to strengthen the communities it serves. The next CEO should be a strong presence in Marion, Indiana, and help to further define Afena as the leader in local financial services and community development.
 

Grant County has a population of 60,000, with Marion, Indiana serving as the county seat, which is less than 90 minutes from Fort Wayne and Indianapolis.
 

The Opportunity

The CEO will partner with the Board of Directors to define and execute the credit union's strategic vision while fostering a culture of service, innovation, accountability, and employee engagement. The successful candidate will ensure continued financial strength while expanding Afena's impact throughout its five-county community.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the strategic plan established with the Board of Directors.

• Provide visionary leadership that advances Afena's mission and long-term sustainability.

• Ensure sound financial performance, regulatory compliance, and effective enterprise risk management.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing executive leadership team.

• Strengthen member relationships through exceptional service and innovative financial solutions.

• Represent Afena throughout the community, building partnerships with civic, business, and nonprofit organizations.

• Promote a culture centered on integrity, collaboration, accountability, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

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Desired Qualifications

• Progressive executive leadership experience within a credit union or financial institution.

• Significant experience with the CDFI designation, and an ability to continue to pursue and win grants with our partner CU Strategic Planning.

• Demonstrated success leading organizational growth and strategic initiatives.

• Strong knowledge of lending, operations, finance, regulatory compliance, and enterprise risk management.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

• A passion for community development and member service.

• Bachelor's or advanced degree preferred, or proven credit union executive leadership.

• Credit union executive designation (CCUE, CUDE, or similar) is desirable.

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Ideal Leadership Profile

The successful candidate will be:

• A visionary leader with strong business acumen.

• An authentic communicator who builds trust.

• A collaborative executive who develops people and culture.

• A strategic thinker who embraces innovation while managing risk.

• A servant leader committed to improving financial lives throughout the community.

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Why Afena?

Afena is more than a financial institution—it is a trusted community partner and CDFI committed to expanding opportunity and helping members build stronger financial futures. As Grant County's only certified Community Development Financial Institution, Afena has established a reputation for innovative lending, financial education, and meaningful community impact.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead an organization where purpose and performance work together to make a lasting difference.

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Location: Marion, Indiana

Compensation: Competitive executive compensation package with comprehensive benefits, commensurate with experience.

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Afena Federal Credit Union is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from leaders who share its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and community service.

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Apply to Become the Next CEO and Leader of Afena

CU Strategic Planning is conducting the executive search for the next leader of Afena. To apply, please provide the following by September 7, 2026:

• A cover letter that addresses why you are interested in the position and how your experience recommends you for the position

• Your resume or curriculum vitae

• A list of at least 3 professional references and contact information

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Use the form below to apply or email: Mike Beall, attn Afena CEO Search
mikeb@custrategicplanning.com

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