Gesa Credit Union Announces Addition of Two New Industry Experts to Executive Leadership Team

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on July 2, 2024

Richland, Wash.-based Gesa Credit Union recently announced the hiring of two new team members to its Executive Leadership team. Kurt Johnson and Steve Tagnolli bring several decades of experience to their new roles as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Home Loans, respectively.  

The announcement is the latest move for Gesa as it continues to expand across the Pacific Northwest. In April, the credit union opened its first full-service branch outside of Washington state in Post Falls, Idaho, bringing its expansive portfolio of financial services and resources and its commitment to community enrichment to more people across the region. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Kurt and Steve to our leadership team. Their extensive experience and proven track record in the financial industry will be invaluable as we continue in our commitment to provide our communities with exceptional service and value,” said Don Miller, President and CEO of Gesa Credit Union. “As we continue this momentum of growth across the region, we are always grateful for team members like Kurt and Steve who are not only extremely knowledgeable about the industry but are also committed to bringing impactful services, resources, and programs that will uplift and support our members on their financial journey.” 

As Chief Financial Officer, Johnson will coordinate and supervise Gesa’s accounting, finance, analytics, and incentive programs, as well as oversee the credit union’s strategic planning, operational activities, and project management. Johnson will collaborate with Gesa’s Executive Leadership team and other departments to strategize cost-effective solutions for all aspects of the organization. 

In Tagnolli’s position as Vice President of Home Loans, he will be responsible for managing Gesa’s Home Loan Department and staff, including overseeing its mortgage-lending portfolio and executing effective strategies that are in line with the credit union’s goals. He will also provide leadership and direction to his team, fostering efficiency and optimizing workflows to support their personal and professional growth.  

Johnson graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting. He began his career in the financial service industry more than 27 years ago and most recently served as both Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer at Educators Credit Union in Wisconsin.  

Tagnolli is a graduate of Sonoma State University. Throughout his 20-year career, Tagnolli has worked in a variety of roles across different sectors, such as mortgage, retail, and commercial banking operations. Prior to joining Gesa, he served as the Senior Vice President Regional Manager at Columbia Bank.  

Posted in Idaho, Regional Member News, Washington.