O’Connell will assume leadership of the Columbus-based credit union ($85.1 million in assets, 13,060 members) in June 2020 when Bill Butler, its current president/CEO, retires.
O’Connell joined Ohio HealthCare FCU as CFO in 2004 when it ended the year with $27.3 million in assets. As a member of the senior management team, she has helped the credit union more than triple in size.
Part of that growth came from its 2013 acquisition of MedPro Federal Credit Union based in Akron, Ohio, which then had $17.4 million in assets. The merger made Ohio HealthCare FCU a $73 million credit union, but while back office operations were combined, the MedPro branches have continued to operate under the MedPro name.
“Her major contributions to credit unions over three decades and exemplary leadership make her an outstanding choice,” Chuck Smith, a long time board member, said.
Butler, who became CEO in 1999 when it had $18.3 million in assets, said he has been fortunate to have worked with O’Connell for most of his tenure.
“Our Board has made an excellent choice in naming Christy as our future leader,” Butler said. “I know firsthand her dedication to our members, the board, and the staff. She is the consummate credit union professional.”
O’Connell has more than 30 years of experience in the credit union industry, focusing on planning, organizational development, administrative management, and strategic partnerships. She has managed day-to-day operations for back office processing, member services, accounting and loans.
Last year it generated $695,232 in net income for a return on average assets of 0.87% in 2017, up 5 basis points from 2016. Income for the three months ending March 31 was $83,929, or an annualized 0.40% ROA in the first quarter, down 79 basis points.
“I am certain we have a very bright future,” O’Connell said. “Ohio HealthCare is a great organization with a supportive field of membership, strong financials, and talented employees. We are proactive in building products and services that exceed the offerings of many of our competitors.”