Joe Hearn’s leadership philosophy is grounded in a simple but powerful balance of heart and smart.
As president and CEO of Dupaco Credit Union, Hearn has demonstrated how strong business judgment paired with deep empathy can fuel both financial success and meaningful community impact. Under his guidance, Dupaco has tripled its assets to $3.6 billion and expanded service across Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois—without losing sight of its cooperative mission.
Named the 2025 CUES Outstanding Chief Executive, Hearn credits Dupaco’s success to a culture built on trust, authenticity, and relationships. From navigating complex growth strategies and digital transformation to investing in people and communities, his leadership reflects the credit union movement’s highest values of people before profits and service before self.
In this profile, Hearn and those who have worked closely with him reflect on the experiences, mentors, and convictions that shaped his 40-year journey at Dupaco. The result is a compelling look at leadership that delivers results while staying true to purpose, and a reminder that when heart and smart work together, credit unions shine brightest.
