Arizona Central Credit Union announces new CEO
Arizona Central Credit Union has welcomed Brian Lee as its new president and chief executive officer. Lee is replacing the retiring Greg Harden. Veronica Piotrowski, Board Treasurer, states “Brian brings a wealth of experience and vision to lead Arizona Central Credit Union into its next chapter. His commitment to the membership and community aligns perfectly with our mission to empower and strengthen our organization.”
Brian began his credit union career as a Principal Examiner with the National Credit Union Administration in July 2010, ensuring the safety and soundness of the credit union system. In June 2014 Lee joined Landings Credit Union as the Chief Financial Officer and in January 2020 was promoted to Landings’ President & Chief Executive Officer.
Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.
Along with his service to credit union members and staff Brian is involved with volunteering to ensure the success of consumer-focused financial cooperatives comprising the credit union system as well as the communities in which he lives and works. Brian has earned recognition for his advocacy and leadership from the credit union system, AZ Business magazine and the ASU Alumni Association.
Brian states “I’m excited to join the talented team at Arizona Central Credit Union and honored the Board trusts me to build off the strong foundation built by Greg Harden. I look forward to getting to work.”
Lee resides in Mesa, AZ with his wife and 4 children.
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OneAZ Credit Union welcomes Steve Leugers
OneAZ Credit Union announced that Steve Leugers is joining OneAZ as its new Chief Lending Officer. This marks an exciting new chapter as OneAZ, which manages $3.4 billion in assets, aims to elevate its lending operations through data-driven and member-centric solutions.
“Steve brings decades of experience to OneAZ with a strong track record of enhancing efficiency, igniting growth, and fostering innovation,” said Brandon Michaels, President & CEO of OneAZ Credit Union. “His leadership is rooted in building strong teams and elevating performance to drive results. As OneAZ expands to reach new corners of the state, Steve’s vision and expertise is going to be vital for OneAZ’s strategic growth and our aspiration to inspire the dreams of our members. We are incredibly excited for him to join the OneAZ family.”
With over 20 years of experience in lending and finance, Steve joins OneAZ from the $10 billion OnPoint Community Credit Union in the Pacific Northwest. During his seven years at OnPoint, Steve managed a nearly $10 billion loan portfolio, comprised of consumer, mortgage and commercial, and implemented new technologies that drove growth and elevated OnPoint as a top lender in the region. With his passion for innovation and excellence, Steve will lead OneAZ’s lending team to expand our portfolio and deliver seamless, personalized lending experiences for our members and business customers.
“OneAZ represents everything that’s exciting about the future of credit unions: growth, innovation, and, of course, a strong team culture,” said Leugers. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead a dedicated lending team and to work alongside leaders who truly care about making a positive impact in the community. I’m inspired by Brandon’s visionary leadership and am excited to work to elevate OneAZ’s lending portfolio through data-driven solutions that put people first.”
This marks a pivotal moment for OneAZ as it continues to innovate and expand its lending operations. Steve’s leadership will be instrumental in driving growth and delivering exceptional member experiences as OneAZ strives to be Arizona’s financial trailblazer.
Western Retail Advisors promotes Jared Cauffield to associate vice president
Phoenix-based retail brokerage specialist Western Retail Advisors has promoted Jared Cauffield to Associate Vice President, expanding his role as a retail leasing specialist focused on sourcing opportunities, developing tailored leasing strategies and negotiating agreements that establish thriving retail environments.
A Western Retail Advisor team member since 2019, Cauffield’s market insight and client commitment have resulted in more than 600,000 square feet of lease and sale transactions, totaling over $173 million in career deal volume. His client roster spans local, regional and national tenants and owners including Vestar, Thompson Thrift, Tanger, Solidcore, Rivian and others.
“Jared is a conscientious broker, always approaching deals based on his keen understanding of the latest retail trends and his client-first commitment,” said Western Retail Advisors Founding Partner Eric Termansen. “That combination has earned him the role of trusted advisor. We’re grateful to have him as part of our team and congratulate him on a well-earned promotion.”
Cauffield holds a bachelor’s degree in Operations Management from the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University and is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and Urban Land Institute (ULI).
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