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CEO Co-Lab

GoWest's CEO Co-Lab is quickly becoming a "can't-miss" event among the region's most forward-thinking and innovative CEOs – you won't want to miss it.
Jan16

Wyoming CU Day at the Capitol

Our collective advocacy priority will be to showcase the impact Wyoming credit unions are making across the state, while increasing our connection and relationship with our elected leaders at the Wyoming Capitol.
Jan22

Idaho CU Day at the Capitol

Our collective advocacy priority will be to showcase the impact Idaho credit unions are making across the state, while increasing our connection and relationship with our elected leaders at the Idaho Capitol.
Jan28

Arizona CU Day at the Capitol

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Brittanie Bonanzino

AVP, Communications

Washington

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Alyse Knudsen

Manager, Communications

Oregon

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Columbia Credit Union Hires Heather Friend as Chief Operating Officer

Posted by on July 24, 2024

Heather Friend Columbia Credit Union

Columbia Credit Union, which serves members in Washington and Oregon, has hired Heather Friend as Chief Operating Officer. In this role she will oversee the efficiency of day-to-day operations as well as develop and implement strategies to ensure the success of the credit union’s branches, contact center, support services, and facilities. 

Friend joins Columbia Credit Union with more than 25 years of banking experience, from entry-level positions all the way up to senior leadership for U.S. Bank and Embold Credit Union. At U.S. Bank, she oversaw one of their largest multi-skilled operation centers supporting Customer Service, the Fraud Liaison Center, Fraud Operations, Email Operations, Online Operations, Social Media, Chat, and the Wealth Management teams. During her time at Embold, Friend moved into more member-focused roles, overseeing all Branch Operations, Call Center, Virtual Banking, Digital Banking, Support Services, Marketing, Community Development, and Investment Services. During this time she supported the credit union through a major rebrand from Clackamas Federal Credit Union to Embold. 

“This role is all about creating positive experiences for our members and employees,” said Friend. “I look forward to continuing to build on the success Columbia Credit Union is so recognized for – further optimizing internal processes and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within both the organization and the communities we serve.” 

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Heather to our senior management team,” said Lindsey Salvestrin, Columbia Credit Union President and CEO. “Her CV is extensive in exactly the areas that can benefit our member experience and employee operations. Heather’s people-first enthusiasm and serious operational chops make her especially well-suited and culturally aligned to join our already strong credit union leadership.” 

Friend’s family has deep roots in Clark County, Wash., dating back to 1910. Columbia Credit Union is where she opened her first account. 

Posted in Leadership, Oregon, Regional Member News, Washington.