GTE Financial continues to its elevate team with new promotions and hires
TAMPA, FL (March 21, 2024) — GTE Financial, one of the largest locally owned and operated financial institutions in Tampa Bay, is pleased to announce the promotion of Saidy Barredo to Assistant Vice President of Business Banking Operations and Title, Chris Grunsten to Assistant Vice President of Fraud Operations and Risk Analytics and the hiring of Jamie Miranda to Vice President of Administration.
With nearly ten years of experience in the financial industry, Barredo joined GTE Financial in 2020 as a Business Banking Processor and Closer, quickly working her way up to Manager of Business Banking Operations. As the new Assistant Vice President of Business Operations and Title, she will be overseeing the title department while continuing to oversee business banking operations.
“Saidy has been with the organization for the better part of four years and has been the chief architect on the fulfillment side of the business group,” comments Manny Aguilar, Senior Vice President of Commercial and Advisory Services. “She has accepted every challenge and project with full vigor and produced results that have moved the organization forward.”
Similarly, Chris Grunsten brings nearly six years of experience to the credit union and over 15 years in the industry. He has demonstrated leadership in establishing and developing the card fraud team from its inception, with a keen focus on enhancing the member experience while effectively managing risk. Under his leadership, the card fraud team successfully recovered over $2 million in fraudulent transactions last year alone. In his new role, Grunsten will lead efforts to centralize fraud operations, driving efficiencies and further enhancing member experiences.
“Chris has spearheaded initiatives such as deploying claim centers for members and employees, enrolling members in premium fraud alerts, and implementing solutions to combat emerging fraud schemes like account takeover and peer-to-peer payments,” comments Chad Burney, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at GTE Financial. “His expertise and dedication will continue to be instrumental in safeguarding our members’ financial security amidst evolving challenges.”
Additionally, new hire Jamie Miranda joins the credit union as Vice President of Administration. With extensive experience in creating and implementing visionary strategies, increasing profitability, and driving change on a global scale, Miranda will be responsible for leading GTE’s vision and management of Facilities and Facilities Project Management, Corporate Real Estate, Purchasing and Contracting, Mailroom functions, as well as REOs, and more.
“We are pleased to welcome Jaime to the GTE Family as our new VP of Administration,” comments Jennifer Maxfield, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Impact Officer. “Jaime comes to us with over 20 years’ experience in Facilities Management and Real Estate Strategy and is both a visionary and a hands-on leader that is excited to join a close-knit team focused on service.”
For over 85 years, GTE Financial has been building a sense of community and leadership by going beyond money. Providing superior member service and recruiting exceptional leadership has continued to contribute to the success of GTE. Building a knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate team makes this credit union stand out from other financial institutions in West Central Florida. If you are interested in a career at GTE Financial, please visit gtefinancial.org/careers.
About GTE Financial
GTE Financial is a not-for-profit financial cooperative located throughout West Central Florida with $2.9 billion in assets and 24 Community Financial Centers. Chartered in 1935, GTE Financial is the official credit union of the Tampa Bay Lightning and is locally owned and operated in the Tampa Bay area, serving more than 230,000 individuals and businesses. For more information on GTE Financial, visit gtefinancial.org.
For more information, interviews, or media requests, please call (813) 644-7443 or email Savannah Cruz at pr@bkncreative.com.
