RiverLand FCU names George Lunsford next CEO
PHOENIX, AZ (September 7, 2022) — RiverLand Federal Credit Union ($310M, New Orleans, LA) has announced that George Lunsford will serve as their next president and chief executive officer (CEO) following the retirement of the cooperative’s first President/CEO, Carol Irby, who has led the cooperative since 1985. Lunsford was placed by DDJ Myers, the well-known leadership development firm that recently became an ALM First Company. Lunsford has served as RFCU’s Vice President of Information Technology for more than 13 years, working closely with Irby. The official transition is planned for January 1, 2023.
Reflecting on her time as CEO, Irby shares insights on the past and excitement for the future. “My 37-year journey with RFCU has been an incredible one – I’m proud of our growth and accomplishments and humbled to work with such a talented team. RFCU’s focus is always on our members and that will never change. George’s proven leadership will make the transition seamless as he has experience collaborating with every department, understands the importance of embracing technology, and embodies our values of putting members first,” says Irby.
“I am honored to be selected as the next CEO of RiverLand FCU. It’s been a pleasure to lead the digital evolution of the credit union, helping to launch the first mobile app as well as digitize many of our other services and processes,” says Lunsford. “Carol Irby has been a fantastic boss and mentor. I look forward to ‘taking the baton’ and collaborating with the Board to guide the credit union into the future, continuing our mission to serve our membership. It’s truly wonderful to work for an organization that puts people first – both members and employees – and exists for people, not profit.”
Lunsford is a native New Orleanian and received both his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and his master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of New Orleans. In his spare time, George supports local cat rescue efforts and enjoys traveling and skiing with his spouse.
As part of their due diligence process, RFCU’s Board of Directors hired DDJ Myers to professionally vet their internal candidate. Based on this independent evaluation, the Board is confident that George is best qualified to spearhead the credit union’s continued success and provide the continuity the cooperative sought.
“Working with DDJ Myers was a great experience. They were a pleasure to work with at every level – and very responsive to any questions or concerns,” says Lunsford. “As a first-time CEO candidate, I’m thankful for the many informative conversations with Deedee. Her expertise and insight were invaluable in navigating the CEO recruitment process.”
About RiverLand Federal Credit Union
RiverLand Federal Credit Union was founded in 1978 by a handful of New Orleans Public Service, Inc. (NOPSI) employees to provide financial services economically, without sacrificing service or quality and with the belief that every member is significant. Through the years RFCU’s membership base expanded, and the credit union now serves Entergy employees systemwide. The credit union’s commitment to members remains the same as it strives to provide unparalleled member service in all financial services provided, at the lowest cost possible. Learn more at www.riverlandfcu.org.
