In observance of Independence Day, our branch will close at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, July 3. Online and mobile banking will remain available for your convenience.
Founded in Missoula
Total Assets
Year-over-Year Asset Growth
Serving Western Montana
I have been the CEO of MECU for 27 years, and I can tell you one thing with certainty: no two days are alike. On any given morning I might be guiding the board through a regulatory change, working out the details on a loan for a long-time member, or yes, occasionally filling in as the janitor.
That is what it means to lead a small, community-owned credit union. You wear a lot of hats, and every one of them matters.
MECU was started organically in 1996, without grants or sponsor employers, by people who believed in the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People." That commitment is still the foundation of everything we do. We have navigated Y2K, the housing crisis, a global pandemic, and a rapidly shifting technology landscape, and we are stronger for it.
Whatever creativity I possess can be seen in the continued existence of this small but mighty credit union in an age of mergers and consolidations.
The person who steps into this role next will inherit a stable, profitable credit union with a dedicated staff, a committed volunteer board, and members who genuinely care about this organization. They will also have the opportunity to shape what MECU looks like for the next 30 years.
If you are a leader who believes that finance is ultimately about people, and you want to do that work right here in Western Montana, I hope you will reach out. I am grateful to everyone who considers this opportunity.
Leslie Womack
Founding CEO, Montana Educators' Credit Union
MECU is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative. Every dollar we earn goes back to serving our members, not to outside shareholders. We started as a school employees credit union and today we're open to anyone who lives in Missoula, Granite, Lake, Mineral, Ravalli, or Sanders County.
Locally Owned
Every decision is made right here in Missoula by our staff and volunteer board, all members of this community.
People Helping People
The credit union philosophy is not a slogan here. It is how we have operated since day one.
Financially Strong
A 1.38% return on average assets and 11.8% year-over-year growth reflect a disciplined, stable organization.
Community Anchor
From scholarships to financial education, MECU invests in the long-term health of Western Montana.
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO leads all aspects of day-to-day operations while keeping MECU true to its mission and positioned for the future. This is a hands-on, visible role in a close-knit community.
Strategic Leadership
Execute the board-approved strategic plan, identify growth opportunities, and keep MECU competitive in an evolving financial landscape.
Member Service Excellence
Drive a member-first culture and serve as the public face of the credit union with members, regulators, and community partners.
Lending Oversight
Manage a responsible loan portfolio across consumer, real estate, and specialized products with strong financial acumen.
Team and Culture
Build and support a high-performing team grounded in accountability, inclusion, and genuine care for the people we serve.
Financial Stewardship
Oversee budgeting, capital, liquidity, and regulatory compliance to ensure the long-term safety and soundness of the credit union.
Board Partnership
Serve as the primary link between staff and the board, providing clear and timely information for informed governance decisions.
No single candidate will check every box. We are looking for someone who combines strong financial expertise with genuine commitment to community, and who leads with humility and honesty.
Base salary starts at $135,000 with room to negotiate based on experience. This is a full-time, on-site position in Missoula, MT.
Ready to learn more?
Download the full Position Profile for complete details on responsibilities, qualifications, and MECU's history.
Confidential inquiries are welcome now. Open applications begin August 1, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
To apply, please email a cover letter and resume detailing your executive financial experience to our search coordinator:
Paige Judnich, PHR
Search Coordinator, Cascadia Management Group
paige@cascadiamg.com
To protect the integrity of the search process and the privacy of all candidates, please submit all inquiries and application materials directly to Paige Judnich. Do not contact MECU board members or current credit union employees regarding this opportunity.