Wildfire Credit Union announces that after a nationwide search, Benjamin Denay has been selected as the Credit Union’s next President/CEO. Denay will succeed Tim Benecke, who served as President/CEO of Wildfire Credit Union for the past 15 years.

“We will continue to find opportunities to provide the best services and products to our members with Ben as our leader,” said Ken Voelker, Board Chairperson. “Ben has the experience and long track record of leadership and success in the financial services sector as well as the fresh perspective that we were looking for in our CEO. He knows our community well and demonstrated his commitment to making the community better, which aligns perfectly with the values of our credit union.” 

Denay has nearly 22 years in the financial services sector, including a lengthy career in management with Garber Management Group, an umbrella organization for 23 new-car dealerships, representing 16 franchises across six states. Most recently, Denay served as the Chief Financial Officer of local Saginaw-based company, Gateway Financial Solutions, a $400 million consumer auto finance organization. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from Northwood University in Midland, MI, and a CPA designation.

“I am deeply honored to lead Wildfire Credit Union, an organization that stands out for its dedication to serving members and the community. I look forward to working with the talented team here to deliver outstanding financial services for our members and strengthen our role as a trusted financial partner in our community." Denay said when asked for a comment on his new position.

The executive search was conducted by D. Hilton Associates Inc.