The Credit Union Association of New Mexico announced Wednesday its board of directors has unanimously chosen Melia D. Heimbuck, Esq. as the organization’s next president/CEO. Heimbuck, who currently serves as the Association’s senior vice president, advocacy and general counsel, succeeded Juan E. Fernández Ceballos, as CUANM president/CEO May 15.

"We are delighted to announce the promotion of Melia Heimbuck, a highly skilled member of our team, to the position of President and CEO,” said Association Board President, Karen Griffo. “Melia’s selection for this role is a testament to the exceptional talent we have brought in, and her extensive experience and unwavering passion for credit unions in New Mexico make her ideal for this challenge. We have great confidence in Melia’s abilities and are excited about the prospects of this transition. We look forward to the valuable contributions she will make in her new role and the growth and success she will bring to The Credit Union Association of New Mexico."

Heimbuck is a licensed New Mexico attorney, holds an MBA in Finance, and has worked in the credit union movement for nearly 25 years, before joining the Association team in 2021. She proudly holds the CUDE designation from the National Credit Union Foundation.

Fernández has accepted a new position as the president/CEO of the Louisiana Credit Union League. His last day at CUANM will be June 16.

"The association extends its warmest wishes to Juan,” says Griffo. “During his tenure with us, he was instrumental in breathing life back into the Association, setting us on a new path that we are eager to pursue alongside our outstanding team. Juan is a shining star in our industry, and we feel fortunate to have had him with us. We look forward to seeing him thrive in his future endeavors!"

“I have been fortunate to work alongside Juan since coming to New Mexico. His fearless leadership, award-winning endeavors and the bold strategic direction of the Association Board have created an exciting buzz in New Mexico’s credit unions," Heimbuck said. "I am honored to continue what has been started and carry forward the mantra of ‘great things are happening in New Mexico!’"