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Sonya Watkins Joins Credit Union West as Chief Retail Officer

Posted by on August 7, 2026

Bringing more than 30 years of credit union experience, Sonya Watkins is joining Credit Union West as Chief Retail Officer, effective Aug. 10. She will help guide the organization’s operations while advancing its commitment to employees, members, and the communities it serves.

Watkins has led retail operations, branch administration, member contact centers, workforce planning, leadership development, and organizational transformation throughout her career. While serving as an Associate Member of the Credit Union West Board of Directors, Watkins gained valuable insight into the credit union’s mission, culture, and long-term vision.

As Chief Retail Officer, she will oversee Retail, the Member Contact Center, Operations Support, People & Culture, and People Development, bringing these functions together to strengthen collaboration, operational effectiveness, and the overall member experience.

“As Credit Union West continues to grow, we’re intentionally building a leadership team that will help shape our future,” said Karen Roch, President and Chief Executive Officer of Credit Union West. “Sonya brings a wealth of experience, a passion for developing people, and a collaborative leadership style that aligns with our values. She is the right leader to help us continue to provide on our mission while supporting our employees and members every step of the way.”

Throughout her career, Watkins has successfully led or supported credit unions through change by strengthening operations, investing in employees, and creating environments where both people and performance thrive.

“I’m honored to join Credit Union West and become part of an organization with such a strong culture and purpose,” said Watkins. “Having served as an Associate Member of the Board, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of this team and its dedication to making a meaningful difference. I look forward to working alongside our employees to build on that foundation and continue serving our members with excellence.”

Watkins’ appointment reflects Credit Union West’s thoughtful approach to leadership and its focus on delivering lasting value for members today and into the future.

Posted in Arizona, Leadership, Regional Member News.

Aug12

Advocacy 101: Day 1 (Option 1)

Join GoWest Credit Union Association this August for a free two-part virtual Advocacy Training workshop, where you’ll learn how the impact stories you create at your credit union and Advocacy go hand in hand.
Aug12

Advocacy 101: Day 1 (Option 2)

Join GoWest Credit Union Association this August for a free two-part virtual Advocacy Training workshop, where you’ll learn how the impact stories you create at your credit union and Advocacy go hand in hand.
Aug12

Advocacy 101: Day 1 (Option 3)

Join GoWest Credit Union Association this August for a free two-part virtual Advocacy Training workshop, where you’ll learn how the impact stories you create at your credit union and Advocacy go hand in hand.
Aug13

Advocacy 101: Day 2

Join GoWest Credit Union Association this August for a free two-part virtual Advocacy Training workshop, where you’ll learn how the impact stories you create at your credit union and Advocacy go hand in hand.