Jeanne D’Arc CEO Mark Cochran to Retire This Summer

After 17 years at the helm of the Lowell, Mass.-based Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, Mark S. Cochran will retire later this summer.

According to Wednesday’s announcement, a nationwide search for Jeanne D’Arc’s next CEO has been launched by executive search and leadership development firm DDJ Myers, and both internal and external candidates will be considered.

Since becoming CEO of the credit union, Cochran has increased staffing by 48%, more than doubled the credit union’s membership base and increased assets from $600 million to $2.1 billion. Jeanne D’Arc also significantly expanded its footprint under Cochran’s leadership – over the past 17 years, four traditional branches plus two high school branches were added, renovation projects were initiated at Jeanne D’Arc’s existing four branches, and in 2009, a headquarters facility was opened in The Acre neighborhood of Lowell next to the credit union’s Lowell Branch. What’s more, Acre Crossing, a Jeanne D’Arc operations center, is set to open in The Acre this Spring adjacent to an affordable housing complex.

Cochran’s achievements as CEO have also included launching the credit union’s We Share A Common Thread Foundation in 2011, which has donated more than $4 million to nonprofits; being named CEO of the Year by the Cooperative Credit Union Association in 2022; and serving on the boards of Octant Business Services, CUFSLP, Eascorp and the MA Credit Union League Legislative Committee.

“Mark embodies Jeanne D’Arc’s core values in all he does,” Jeanne D’Arc Board Chair Naomi Prendergast said. “Mark is not only a respected leader, business partner and colleague to countless individuals and organizations, but a true friend. The Board is beyond grateful for Mark’s leadership and vision over the years.”

Cochran commented, “Serving as Jeanne D’Arc’s CEO has been an honor and a privilege. Thanks to the strength of our team and Board, I’m confident this will be a smooth and seamless transition. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next as the credit union continues to help our members make smart financial choices.”