TwinStar CU Selects David Tuyo as Next CEO

Olympia, WA – TwinStar Credit Union announces David Tuyo as the next CEO of the credit union. Tuyo will succeed the credit union’s long-term CEO, Jeff Kennedy, who is retiring after nearly 40 years of service. The selection follows an extensive search, which was facilitated by executive search and leadership development firm DDJ Myers.

“The Board of Directors is thrilled to announce David Tuyo as TwinStar’s next CEO,” says Thomas Pettus-Czar, Board Chair. “Our goal throughout this process was to identify a visionary and dynamic leader aligned with our mission and values. We’re confident that David is that leader and look forward to the pivotal role he will play in advancing and supporting the mission of our credit union.”

Tuyo will bring 25 years of financial services experience to his new position. He has served as President & CEO of University Credit Union in Los Angeles, CA since 2017. Under his leadership, the credit union more than doubled its assets and members while significantly expanding its geographic footprint.

“I can’t wait to join the dedicated team at TwinStar and continue building on Jeff’s impressive legacy of service,” says Tuyo. “As CEO, I’m committed to providing innovative products and services to help our members and communities feel financially secure and empowered to reach their dreams.”

Throughout his career, Tuyo has held senior level positions at various financial institutions including Power Financial Credit Union, USAlliance Federal Credit Union, and PenAir Federal Credit Union, among others.

As a life-long learner, Tuyo earned his Doctor of Business Administration in Leadership & Organizational Behavior from California Southern University; a Master of Business Administration in Economics from Mississippi State University; and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from University of Mobile. In his free time, Tuyo enjoys traveling with his spouse of 23 years and their two college-age children, along with golfing, camping, and volunteering in the community with his local church.

Tuyo will officially begin his new position on May 1, 2025. However, he and retiring CEO, Jeff Kennedy, are already working together to ensure a smooth transition for the cooperative.

“Leading this remarkable institution has been an honor and privilege. I am immensely proud of the progress we have made, and I am confident that the credit union is well-positioned for continued success. As I pass on the torch to David, I’m looking forward to watching our credit union thrive and achieve even greater success in the years to come,” says Kennedy.

“We are grateful for Jeff’s nearly 40 years of service,” says Pettus-Czar, Board Chair. “He has led our credit union with compassion for the lives of our members and their financial well-being, while building a strong foundation for the future of our organization. The entire Board of Directors extends its congratulations and best wishes on his very well-deserved retirement.”