There's a new leader at Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union.

Richard Romero, chief operations officer of Los Angeles Firemen's Credit Union, has been named president/CEO of the $570 million credit union.

“I knew (SMCU) was the right place for me,” said Romero.  “I saw a close relationship between the 7 Principles and my management style and beliefs. I believe that now is the time for cooperatives, such as credit unions, to really stand out and become part of the solution. 

“Serving the underserved and looking for opportunities to provide services that are affordable, fair and competitive is what the public needs and SMCU is primed to deliver.”

With more than 24 years of financial services experience, most recently as LAFCU's COO, Romero has led teams from consumer lending, member services, operations, call center and facilities, to real estate and business services, commercial lending and information technology, his new employer said.