Seattle Credit Union Announces Retirement of CEO Richard Romero
Seattle, WA — February 11, 2026 — Seattle Credit Union announced today that Richard Romero will retire as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective March 31, 2026. Richard will move into an advisory role beginning March 1, 2026, to support a smooth transition in leadership to Chief Financial Officer Michael Cruz. Cruz will serve as Interim CEO while the Board of Directors conducts a comprehensive search for the credit union’s next chief executive officer.
Seattle Credit Union emphasized that its mission, strategy, and day-to-day operations remain unchanged, with a continued focus on making prosperity a reality for all.
“Serving this credit union and our members has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Richard Romero. “I was drawn to Seattle Credit Union because of its belief that access, opportunity, and community come first. As I step into retirement, I have full confidence in our leadership team and in the credit union’s enduring commitment to its mission and members.”
Robin Harmon, Chair of the Seattle Credit Union Board of Directors, thanked Romero for his years of service and highlighted the organization’s stability moving forward. “Richard’s leadership has been grounded in purpose,” Harmon said. “Under his leadership, Seattle Credit Union strengthened its financial foundation, modernized its systems, and expanded access to communities often overlooked by traditional financial institutions. He also instilled a profound conviction and wholehearted embrace of our mission and vision within Seattle Credit Union. As we begin the CEO search, our priority is continuity in our mission of prosperity for all. Members can expect the same trusted service and community focus that define Seattle Credit Union.”
During Romero’s tenure, Seattle Credit Union expanded community partnerships and advanced inclusive banking initiatives, including Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Low-Income Designations. These efforts broadened access to fair, affordable financial services and reinforced the credit union’s long-term sustainability and member-owned mission.
The Board reaffirmed that operations will continue without interruption throughout the leadership transition. “We have a strong leadership team, a well-defined strategy, and a mission that continues to guide every decision,” Harmon added. “Seattle Credit Union is exceptionally well positioned to enter its next chapter with strength and clarity of purpose.”
About Seattle Credit Union
Founded in 1933 by Seattle city employees committed to expanding access to fair banking services through cooperation, Seattle Credit Union has grown to serve more than 48,000 members and manage over $1 billion in assets. Staying true to its founding values, the credit union continues to champion financial empowerment across Washington State through innovative savings and lending programs designed to meet the needs of historically underserved communities. To learn more, visit www.seattlecu.com.
Q: Is something wrong with the credit union?
A: No. Seattle Credit Union is financially strong, stable, and moving forward exactly as planned.
Q: Will rates, services, or branches change?
A: No. Members can expect the same products, services, and level of care.
Q: Who’s in charge now?
A: Michael Cruz, our CFO, will serve as Interim CEO while the Board searches for a permanent successor.
Q: Is the mission changing?
A: Not at all. Our commitment to prosperity for all and inclusive banking remains central to everything we do.
Q: How long will it take to find a new CEO?
A: A CEO search is a complex and deliberate process. We anticipate it will take several months to identify the right leader. This decision will not be rushed; it will be thoughtful and thorough to ensure we select a CEO who aligns with Seattle Credit Union’s values and is well-positioned to lead us into the next chapter.