Description
Position Summary
Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) is seeking an entrepreneurial and strategic President/Chief Executive Officer. In partnership with the Board of Directors, this leader will advance the collective interests of credit unions of all sizes across North and South Dakota while ensuring DakCU’s financial strength and long-term sustainability. The CEO will serve as the primary advocate for Dakota credit unions at both the state and federal levels, clearly communicating legislative and regulatory changes and actively engaging with elected officials, regulatory agencies, and national industry partners. This executive will maintain strong relationships with member credit unions, listen to their needs, and ensure DakCU delivers meaningful value through its programs and services. The role includes oversight of third-party service providers to ensure dues-supported partnerships remain transparent, effective, and aligned with member priorities. The CEO will also work with the Board and contracted partners to support the Health Benefit Trust. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator and influential relationship-builder with a proven ability to drive organizational growth, manage change, and expand revenue beyond traditional dues and conferences. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred. Significant advocacy experience and familiarity with cooperative principles are highly desired.
Company Profile
Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) is the professional trade association representing credit unions across North and South Dakota. Serving 60+ credit unions with more than 562,000 members and combined assets of nearly $11.6 billion as of mid-2025, DakCU’s mission is to help credit unions succeed. With offices in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, DakCU plays a vital role in growing membership, strengthening credit union charters, and supporting service excellence throughout the region. Guided by its vision to be a premier, financially strong, inclusive, and relevant organization, DakCU focuses its efforts on five strategic areas: legislative and regulatory advocacy, compliance support, credit union awareness, professional development and networking, and member solutions. The association is committed to maintaining momentum in political and regulatory advocacy while promoting awareness of the unique benefits credit unions bring to their members and communities. Among its many services, DakCU offers educational programs, compliance resources, public relations initiatives, and strategic business partnerships that empower credit unions to thrive. Through these efforts, DakCU supports more than 2,400 credit union employees across the Dakotas, delivering measurable value and fostering continued growth for the credit union movement.
Community Profile
The Dakota Credit Union Association serves credit unions across the region with offices in both Bismarck, North Dakota, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota—two thriving, welcoming communities that offer an exceptional quality of life. Bismarck provides a friendly, capital-city atmosphere with a stable economy, affordable living, and abundant outdoor recreation along the Missouri River. Sioux Falls, the region’s largest city, offers a vibrant and fast-growing urban environment with a strong business community, diverse amenities, and extensive recreational activities. Together, these locations reflect the strength, collaboration, and community focus that define the Dakota Credit Union Association.
Compensation
A comprehensive compensation package will be offered to the selected candidate.
Apply Now
To submit your confidential application and learn more about the positions represented by D. Hilton Associates, please visit us at www.dhilton.com and click on Find a Career. You may recommend others for candidacy by contacting Sarah Hilton, Senior Vice President at (800) 367-0433, extension 133, or Sarah@dhilton.com
Requirements
A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred. Significant advocacy experience and familiarity with cooperative principles are highly desired.
