Chicago, IL - 
BCU announced today that, in alignment with its previously communicated succession plan, Jim Block has assumed the role of President effective July 1, 2026. Mike Valentine will continue serving as CEO until his planned retirement in early 2027, ensuring a seamless transition for the Credit Union’s employees and members.
Celebrating Valentine’s Legacy
Mike Valentine’s nearly four-decade tenure as BCU President and CEO has been defined by transformative growth and innovation, and a heartfelt commitment to the Credit Union’s purpose: Empowering People To Discover Financial Freedom. Under his leadership, BCU has expanded its national reach, introduced advanced digital tools, and built a reputation as an industry leader in member experience and employee culture.
"It’s been the honor of my career to serve BCU’s members and lead such an extraordinary team,"Mike Valentine CEO BCU said Valentine. "Over the years, we’ve grown not just in size, but in the impact we make on people’s lives. That’s what matters most. Jim and I have worked side by side for many years, and I’m confident in BCU’s ability to execute its strategy under his leadership. I look forward to continuing on as CEO and know BCU will thrive with Jim as President."
Looking Ahead with Block
With more than three decades of experience at BCU, Jim Block joined the organization in 1995 and previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He has led enterprise operations across product lines, technology, lending, and sales contact centers for the US and Puerto Rico. His efforts have driven innovation and shaped solutions for Credit Union members and business partners.
"I’m thrilled to step into this role and carry forward the incredible work Mike and our organization have accomplished to shape BCU’s success," said Block. "Our culture is our greatest strength, and it begins with our people. When we invest in our employees, support one another, and rally as one team, we create exceptional experiences for our members and unlock meaningful growth. Together, we will strengthen connections, amplify collaboration, and build on our momentum to achieve even greater success."
Recognized as a leader in financial services innovation, Block has successfully guided large-scale digital transformations, core system conversions, and merger integrations. His commitment to data-driven strategies, operational excellence, and team development has delivered significant value for members, while his involvement on advisory boards and industry councils extends his influence across the industry.
About BCU: BCU is a not-for-profit, member-owned Credit Union that is fiercely dedicated to Empowering People to Discover Financial Freedom. At just over $6B in assets, BCU is driven by its commitment to providing a fast, easy, secure banking experience and extraordinary service for close to 360,000 members. The BCU field of membership includes employees and families of large employers that are focused on the financial well-being of their workforce; those who live or work in northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin, and the island of Puerto Rico; and subscribers of BCU’s wholly-owned Credit Union Service Organization (CUSO), Life. Money. You.® within communities and Fortune 100 workplaces throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. All BCU members enjoy lifetime access to financial services and well-being programming that inspire confidence through the brand promise “Here Today For Your Tomorrow.”
To learn more about how we can help you realize your financial dreams, visit BCU.org.
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