Bernie O’Dea retires as CEO of Cois Sionna Desmond Credit Union.
Bernie O`Dea has decided to retire as CEO of Limericks largest Credit Union that covers much of West Limerick and North Kerry.
After 44 years of committed credit union service Bernie has decided to hand over the reins at Cois Sionna Desmond Credit Union. While this day was planned well in advance of Bernie’s departure it was an emotional one for Bernie, the staff & Board of Directors at Cois Sionna Desmond Credit Union.
Bernie Credit Union involvement started back in 1979 as a volunteer. In 1996 Bernie became Assistant Manager and in 2003 took on the role as Manager.
One of the key memories that Bernie will be regarded for is the growth of the credit union over the past number of years as Bernie had overseen three mergers thereby consolidating the credit unions in west Limerick and north Kerry .
Today the credit union employs 45 staff and has Assets of €235 Million and is now seen as one of the leading providers of financial services to members with services such as online accessibility, mobile apps, current accounts, debit cards along with a range of Personal Loan products to suit all members from Car Loans to Mortgages to Cultivate Farm Loans and other Personal Loans .
As the Credit Union developed over the years, Bernie ensured that personal engagement with members remained constant and to ensure we always put members needs first. To achieve this Bernie ensured that we kept a balance of digital development and the personal touch.
On the night of the final Board meeting with Bernie Chairman Michael McMahon presented Bernie with a framed photo of Desmond Castle Adare one of Bernie’s favourite locations.
Newly appointed CEO Declan Benson said: I have known Bernie since I came into the credit union movement. It’s no surprise that with Bernie’s commitment and attention to detail along with having the credit union member at the heart of every decision, that the credit union has gone from strength to strength. On behalf of myself, the members, and the staff here at Cois Sionna Desmond Credit Union I would like to wish Bernie the very best for the next chapter of her life.
Thank You Bernie.
