Whitefish Credit Union Names New Department Vice Presidents

Whitefish Credit Union, Montana’s largest credit union, has named new vice presidents for several of its internal departments.

The new vice presidents will help oversee operations in the credit union’s human resources, credit administration, mortgage loan supervisor and controller departments. Representatives say the new vice presidents will help the Credit Union continue its tradition of providing members with outstanding financial services and award-winning customer support.

Jennifer Archer is the credit union’s new vice president of credit administration. The Northwest Montana-native began working with Whitefish Credit Union in 2005. Since that time, she’s helped the loan department grow its portfolio through direct oversight into the formation of processes and the credit administration department.

“As vice president, my major goal is to continually meet the challenges ever-changing regulations have on our processes and to provide a management structure and culture which nurtures the growth of employees, while providing the best member experience possible,” said Archer.

Away from the office, Archer enjoys rafting, camping, and anything to do with her family and newly born son.

The new vice president of Whitefish Credit Union’s human resources department is Allison Deaver. Deaver previously served as the Credit Union’s human resources manager, overseeing recruitment, benefits and training. She credits Zoe Gustafson, her supervisor of more than six years, for being instrumental in her development in the field. Looking toward the future of her department, Deaver plans to continue the work that’s made Whitefish Credit Union a leader in the financial services field of Northwest Montana.

“In the long run, I hope to ensure that Whitefish Credit Union remains one of the Flathead Valley’s employers of choice, with competitive wages, wonderful benefits, a great work culture, and a strong connection between the success of critical functions and the high quality work life of the people who make all this happen,” she said.

Brett Merkel is the credit union’s new controller vice president. His job duties include overseeing Whitefish Credit Union’s accounting function, including periodic financial and regulatory reporting. He also coordinates the enterprise risk management and vendor management processes for the organization. He was previously employed as the credit union’s controller. Merkel attended Indiana University where he earned his accounting degree. When not on the clock, Merkel can be found on his bicycle or backpacking through the wilderness.

Barb Pearson is Whitefish Credit Union’s new mortgage loan supervisor vice president. Before taking over the position, she spent 30 years as the credit union’s real estate loan officer, helping members receive loans custom-tailored to their individual needs. Looking toward the future, Pearson said she plans to strengthen Whitefish Credit Union’s dedication to the local communities it serves in Northwest Montana.