El Paso, TX (May 7, 2026) |
Raiz Federal Credit Union is proud to announce a new chapter in leadership with the appointment of Zankhana “Zeena” Desai as Chief Financial Officer. With over two decades in the credit union movement, Desai is known for her strategic financial expertise and passion for service. She embodies the "People Helping People" spirit at the heart of Raiz, and her leadership will help ensure our continued growth and impact for our members and community.
Desai holds a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics from Gujarat University and a Professional MBA in Accounting and Business from UCLA. For her, learning is an ongoing journey, and each accomplishment lays the groundwork for her next move in promoting others through financial leadership.
For the past 15 years, Desai has dedicated her Saturdays to serving elder communities and low-income residents across Los Angeles County. Through her self-developed “Conscious Spending” program, she empowers people to make mindful financial choices, supporting the same values of education and community uplift that define Raiz.
"Numbers are more than figures — they are the language of human security and opportunity," said Desai. "My goal at Raiz is to ensure our financial strength becomes a driving force behind our members’ ambitions, not just a silent partner. My leadership is built on three pillars: precision in the data we analyze, resilience in the face of challenges, and an unwavering purpose to leave every member in a stronger financial position than the day they walked through our doors."
Outside the boardroom, Desai finds inspiration in family, community, and the outdoors. She believes that balance is key to strong leadership and brings this perspective to her work at Raiz, helping us remain a trusted partner for our members’ dreams.
Welcoming Zankhana Desai to the Raiz family, CEO Max Villaronga shared, "We are honored to have Zeena join our family. She has made an immediate positive impact that the entire team appreciates. Zeena brings a rare combination of high-level finance, strategic expertise, and a genuinely humble heart focused on service. Her dedication to underserved communities and her 'member-first' mindset make her a perfect fit for the culture we are building at Raiz."
