In just under two years at the helm, CEO Bill Brown has set Citadel Credit Union on a course of rapid transformation, writes Jeff Blumenthal for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

Since stepping into the role in October 2023, the Exton-based credit union has doubled its commercial lending team, launched a push into Philadelphia, and prioritized technology upgrades designed to improve both business and consumer banking.

Brown, a seasoned banking executive, saw Citadel’s size and momentum as a strong platform for growth. With $6.4 billion in assets, $5.4 billion in deposits, $5.3 billion in loans, and more than 272,000 members, Citadel ranks as the Philadelphia region’s second-largest credit union. Brown also brought a personal connection to the area from his earlier tenure as Citi’s Philadelphia market president.

To sharpen Citadel’s competitive edge, Brown has built a management team that blends internal talent with outside expertise from larger banks and fintech firms. Recent hires include Chief Commercial Banking Officer Thomas Sebok and Chief Lending Officer Michael Desimone.

On the commercial side, Citadel has relaunched its business banking group, focusing on small business clients. The team now includes twice as many relationship managers and has earned approval as an SBA lender. Technology upgrades are streamlining operations, including digital account openings that can be completed in under five minutes. Looking ahead, Citadel plans to introduce machine-learning credit models to complement traditional underwriting.

Expansion into Philadelphia marks the next phase of growth. Citadel recently announced its first city branch in Overbrook Park and is planning additional suburban and urban locations to serve its growing base.

Read more about Citadel Credit Union’s growth trajectory in the Philadelphia Business Journal.