Press
VITAL Federal Credit Union CEO announces retirement, successor named
SPARTANBURG, SC (January 15, 2015) — In the culmination of a career spanning over four decades serving members in the credit union community, VITAL Federal Credit Union CEO, Pat West, has announced her retirement. During nearly a quarter of a century at her current post, West has led the evolution of a small credit union for employees at one hospital to a regional financial institution.
“When Pat West took the job of our CEO of our credit union, it had been a ‘Mom and Pop’ operation for all of its 27 years. It was housed in several rooms provided at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center,” said Dr. Joseph Walton, Chairman of the VITAL FCU Board of Directors. “Our credit union has been transformed into a successful and respected financial institution with a community charter, a main office in Spartanburg, and a branch office in Duncan,” Walton said.
West took the helm in 1991 at what was then Spartanburg Regional FCU. There were only 2,500 members and just $2.5 million in assets. Since then, membership has nearly tripled to 7,000 and is now open to anyone in Spartanburg County. Assets have grown to $40.6 million dollars today. West guided the transition to VITAL FCU in March of 2014.
“The credit union is now a full-service financial institution serving everyone in Spartanburg County, has 9 ATMs and a wide range of electronic services, and two offices to better serve the community,” West said.
West began her career as a part-time employee at the City of Greenville FCU in 1973. She was appointed CEO of Texize Employees FCU, where she served until her appointment at Spartanburg Regional FCU. West became one of the first CEOs in South Carolina to complete the Certified Credit Union Executive program.
“I have worked with great boards of directors the past 23 years and appreciate their friendship, input, and guidance in making VITAL FCU the great credit union it is today,” said West.
In a joint announcement with the board, West has named Omero as the new CEO of VITAL FCU. DeLorenzo has served as CFO/COO of VITAL FCU for the last ten years. Tim Dill, the former VP of Branch Operations at the Asheville Highway location, will become the new COO.
“I am confident that the institution Pat has built will continue to be successful under Omero’s leadership,” added Board Chairman, Dr. Walton