The President and CEO of Suncoast Credit Union, Kevin Johnson, has announced the retirement of Gary J. Vien, who will step down after serving the credit union for eleven years. A veteran of various leadership roles within Human Resources, Vien began his career in 1973.
Vien has overseen human resources, marketing, facilities, and the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation; he is also a Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE). Passionate about education, Vien has served as a past Board Chair and Board Emeritus of the Hillsborough Community College Foundation, the Credit Union Legislative Action Committee Trustee for the state of Florida and its executive committee, as well as served as the Finance Chair and as an Executive Board member of the Tampa Bay Chamber. Additionally, Vien served as Board Chair of the Six Flags Employees Federal Credit Union in California and as the Vice Chair of the CUNA Creating Awareness Committee.
“Gary leaves an imprint in many ways, but his greatest contribution has been the exemplary leadership he has provided to so many in our organization’, said Johnson. “He has been a mentor, advocate for employees and members, strategist, confidant and friend to so many of us and he will be dearly missed,” he added.
Vien says retirement will bring new opportunities for travel and discovery as well as spending time with his wife and grown children. “It’s been my honor to serve our team members and communities through active participation in supporting their needs and missions.” Vien said. “I will miss seeing everyone as well as managing by ‘walking around’ the halls and workspaces. I don’t see myself riding off into the sunset but rather running towards my next adventure.”
Vien is the author of “Lead or Get Out of the Way” which was published in 2020 and he has traveled and spoken extensively about leadership. His last day will be September 1, 2022.
Terry Wood, currently serving as Vice President of Human Resources, will be promoted to Senior Vice President of Human Resources assuming several of Vien’s previous responsibilities.