Few careers are as rare as one that starts at a loan desk and ends in the corner office of the same institution.
Jim Wookey, CEO of WESTconsin Credit Union, plans to retire later in 2027, closing out more than thirty-two years of service to the credit union’s members and communities. Think of it as the financial-services version of a lifer in a small-town diner who ends up owning the place, minus the apron.
From loan officer to the top job
Wookey joined WESTconsin in 1994 as a Consumer and Mortgage Loan Officer at the River Falls office. From there, he climbed steadily:
- Office Manager and Vice President of the New Richmond and Hudson offices
- Chief Operations Officer (COO) in 2011, a role he held for well over a decade
- CEO in 2024, making him the fifth president in the credit union’s history
Along the way, he helped shape the credit union’s mission, its growth and its community involvement. He also intended to keep building on that success for years to come.
In his own words
“I am proud and honored to have been part of this wonderful organization throughout my professional career,” Wookey said. He added that helping members along their financial journeys, alongside “the best team one could ask for,” has been especially rewarding. “I will miss everyone deeply.”
He isn’t leaving with regrets, though. “I am excited about my upcoming retirement,” he said. “And I am excited about the future ongoing success of WESTconsin Credit Union!”
What comes next
Wookey plans to spend more time with his family. The Board of Directors expressed deep gratitude for his leadership and service, and wished him the best in his next chapter.
The Board will now partner with a national executive recruiting firm to find the credit union’s next CEO. Whoever lands the job will inherit a strong foundation and some very big shoes.