Members First EVP Announces End of Year Retirement

Anna Marie Zielinski recently announced her plan to retire from her role as Executive Vice President at the end of this year. Members First would like to thank Anna Marie for her many years of service to our members and teams across the state.

“Anna’s smart business sense and care for people has been a winning combination!” said Carrie Iafrate, Members First President and CEO. “We are lucky to have had her in the credit union movement and our organization. We wish her a very fun retirement after so many years of dedication.”

Anna Marie joined FEDcom (previously named Grand Rapids Federal Employee Credit Union) in 2002 as the Vice President of Operations. She served as President and CEO of FEDcom from 2010 until 2017, when they merged with Members First

During her time with Members First, Anna Marie helped lead our human resource, marketing, and investment services departments. Her extensive time in the industry and knowledge of our members and markets across the state have made her an asset as we seek ways to grow and elevate our service.

“I am so proud of the things we have built together,” said Anna Marie. “The loving, caring, and supportive generosity of the credit union industry is unlike any other and I have so much gratitude for a career getting to work alongside so many talented and passionate people. Even though I will no longer be working alongside you, I am cheering you on!”

During her tenure at FEDcom, the credit union saw great growth. Membership steadily grew and their asset size nearly doubled from $40 million. In addition to expanding their charter, Anna Marie also helped them place an additional emphasis on community impact through charitable giving and volunteerism.

Looking back on her career, Anna Marie is most proud of the fact that she did it all – even when the cards were stacked against her. Her favorite quote is, “Forgive everyone for everything, always.” She says it has served her well in her personal and professional lives. She built her career by working full- time while obtaining her degrees and being a single parent. She also reflects on being thankful for the privilege of being the first woman in various roles of prominence during her time in several industries.

In her retirement, Anna Marie is looking forward to traveling. She enjoys traveling in the off-season and is looking forward to the flexibility that her retired schedule will give her to do just that!

Many of our C Suite members have worked alongside Anna Marie on projects or in leadership roles over the years. We know that her legacy will live on through their continued work. We thank Anna Marie for her many years of service at Members First and FEDcom. We celebrate her successful career and wish her the best as she prepares for retirement!