connectFirst Credit Union (connectFirst) announced today that Don Coulter has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer effective February 27, 2023. This appointment follows an extensive search process conducted by the connectFirst Board of Directors. Don brings over 20 years of financial services experience to the CEO role, including significant credit union system experience. Most recently he served for five years as the CEO of Wyth Financial (formerly Concentra Bank) following more than three years as CEO at Coast Capital, one of Canada’s largest credit unions.
“The board was thrilled with the quality of candidates that expressed interest in the President & CEO role with our credit union,” said Andrew Eberl, Board Chair, connectFirst. “Even in that very strong field, Don’s proven leadership experience at the CEO level, strong financial acumen, and extensive experience in financial services and within the credit union system, stood out above all others. We are very pleased to have a leader with Don’s strategic expertise, vision for the future and laser sharp member focus join our team.”
“I am very happy to be joining connectFirst and their rich history of making a difference with their members, their employees and their communities,” said Coulter, “I’m very excited to get started and help the team ensure that we maintain and build that impact into the future.”
The Board sincerely appreciates the contributions of Kendra Holland, the interim CEO, who led and guided our teams as we conducted the search for our new CEO. As a senior member of our ELT, she will undoubtedly be an extremely valuable resource for Don as he embarks on his new role.
connectFirst Credit Union, one of the largest and most successful credit unions in Canada, is a full-service financial institution with over $7 billion in assets under administration. connectFirst employs 750 Albertans who provide a wide range of financial products and advice in more than 40 communities across central and southern Alberta. It serves over 125,000 members through a community-focused approach to banking.