United Financial Credit Union announced today that President/CEO David Cibulka will retire March 31, 2017, concluding a distinguished career in the credit union industry spanning over 36 years.
Cibulka began his career in the financial industry in 1971 with jobs at Second National Bank, First Savings and Loan, and Catholic Federal Credit Union. He became Manager at United Financial Credit Union {United Saginaw Credit Union} on June 15, 1980 when Jim and Doris Hubbell, the founders of the Credit Union, retired.
“The Board of Directors has greatly appreciated Dave’s efforts and dedication to serving the credit union for the past 36 years. Dave’s positive attitude and strong member/staff relations are just two of the areas that have made him stand out as an exceptional leader. Dave’s strength is his ability to get employee’s to buy into the team concept of working together for the betterment of the Credit Union and the members, while creating a loyalty in the staff that culminated in a fun and desirable workplace. Dave surrounded himself by people who shared his passionate commitment and dedication for a common purpose of helping our members. The Board wishes him well in the next chapter of his life,” said Edward Ulmer, Board Chairman
Under Cibulka’s leadership, the credit union’s assets have grown from $4 million to $195 million in assets, while membership increased from 2,000 to near 20,000 members. The organization increased from one location with 5 employees to 6 branches with more than 60 employees today.
During his career, he has served on multiple financial and community organizations, some of which include the Mid-Michigan Chapter of Credit Unions, Credit Union Executive Society, Saginaw Civitan Club, Saginaw Exchange Club and the Knights of Columbus at the St. Agnes Parish in Freeland.
“I would like to thank the Credit Union Board of Directors for providing the opportunity to serve as their leader for the past 36 years. I am proud of the high level of financial services and cost savings we have been able to provide our membership. With a strong management team, United Financial Credit Union will continue to be recognized as a leader in the financial industry” said David Cibulka.
The Board of Directors has named Barbara Appold as its new President/CEO. Appold will take over President/CEO duties April 1, 2017.
“The Board of Directors has confidence that Barb will continue to be a strong leader with a commitment to both member service and a controlled growth strategy. She has exceptional communication skills and management capabilities, experience working with the Board and strategic planning, and a strong commitment to staff development. She is ethical and a visionary leader. She has focus on providing exceptional member service, operational efficiency, and is dedicated to the credit union philosophy of “people helping people,” said Edward Ulmer, Board Chairman.
“I am extremely excited and honored to be chosen as United Financial Credit Union’s next CEO. I joined the credit union 25 years ago because I wanted to be a part of an organization where I believe the opportunities for both members and employees were limitless. During my time at the credit union I have not only gained tremendous knowledge of where we are, but more importantly of where we need to go. Working with Dave Cibulka has thoroughly prepared me and I am thankful for his strong leadership. I have a passion for the credit union industry and specifically United Financial Credit Union and with the help of a very talented team, will continue to provide affordable, friendly, and quality service to our members,” said Barbara Appold, Executive Vice President.
Appold has been with United Financial Credit Union for over 25 years, with 13 of those years serving as the Executive Vice President. Barb has served on the Credit Committee and Asset Liability Committee. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Northwood University and two Associate degrees from Delta Community College. One in Computer Information Systems and one in Credit Union Management. Barb was also a graduate from CUNA Management School, a training program for credit union executives studying credit union management concepts and techniques.
About United Financial Credit Union
United Financial Credit Union was founded in 1964 to serve a small group of tool and die workers in the Bridgeport area. United Financial C.U. currently has six locations located in Bridgeport, Saginaw Township, Chesaning, Freeland and Auburn and serves over 19,000 members. Anyone who lives, works or worships in Saginaw, Bay or Midland Counties is eligible for membership.