Soarion Credit Union Welcomes Sharlene East as Its New Chief Financial Officer

East Most Recently Served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Kirtland Federal Credit Union in New Mexico

Sharlene East has joined Soarion Credit Union as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Soarion, East was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Kirtland Federal Credit Union in New Mexico. With more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry, East is a proven expert in planning, financial oversight, and risk management, while ensuring compliance and boosting profitability through innovative solutions and collaborative team efforts. In her new role at Soarion, East will oversee the San Antonio-based credit union’s overall financial strategies, marketing, and operations.

“Throughout her career, Sharlene has demonstrated exceptional skills in orchestrating teams to achieve efficiency while promoting innovation and collaboration,” said Ric Ledezma, Soarion Credit Union President and CEO. “She is deeply committed to continuous improvement, ensuring not only the success of her projects, but also the development of the people she works with. We are thrilled to have Sharlene join Soarion at such an exciting time for the credit union.”

This spring, Soarion Credit Union will open its sixth financial center in San Antonio, while work continues on its new headquarters building, both at Soarion Plaza on Mulberry Avenue near the city’s downtown. Later this year, the credit union also plans to open its seventh San Antonio location.

“I am honored to join such an energetic and collaborative team at Soarion Credit Union,” East said. “Their dedication to the members and their passion for finding innovative solutions shines through. It really is an exciting time for Soarion, and I’m glad to be part of this next chapter in the long legacy of the credit union.”

East, who is a Certified Public Accountant, spent 22 years with Kirtland Federal Credit Union in various roles, including Chief Financial Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer. She holds a master’s degree in management and leadership from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a minor in economics from New Mexico State University.

For more information on Soarion Credit Union, visit www.soarion.org.