As pressure on credit unions to collaborate continues to grow, Cranbury-based Member Support Services — a credit union service organization — announced this week it has created an advisory board of veteran leaders to help grow its shared services model and provide a clear alternative to consolidation at a critical time for the industry.
The three-person, non-governing advisory board, made up of industry veterans Gene Foley, Kirk Kordeleski and Erin Coleman, will offer input on go-to-market strategy, operational priorities, and opportunities to deepen collaboration across the industry and keep credit unions independent.
CEO Vim Anand said it’s a step in the right direction.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but too often, consolidation feels like the only option,” Anand said. “These leaders joined us because they know credit unions deserve to retain their independence and relevance to their members. They’ve spent their careers fighting for the values that set this industry apart. With their guidance, we’re expanding a model that helps credit unions stay strong, flexible, and truly member-owned — without losing what makes them unique.”
The pressure on credit unions to consolidate is growing.
Rising technology costs, operational complexity, and shifting member expectations are making it harder for smaller institutions to compete — especially without scale.
MSS is doubling down on a model that helps institutions grow more efficiently without losing their identity, and the new advisory board will be central to that effort.
“Credit unions have always been strongest when they work together — and the credit union service organization (CUSO) model is one of the smartest ways to do that,” Kordeleski said. “Too many institutions feel forced to merge just to survive. MSS offers a better path: one where credit unions can cut costs, stay competitive, and keep their identity intact by pooling operational resources. That’s what drew me to MSS and this board.”
Unlike traditional governing boards, MSS’s advisory board holds no fiduciary responsibilities. It will meet quarterly and serve as a strategic sounding board, drawing on decades of executive leadership, consulting, and operational expertise across the credit union system.
“MSS is helping credit unions stay focused on what matters most—serving members, strengthening communities, and leading with purpose,” Coleman said. “This model gives institutions the flexibility to grow without losing sight of who they are. I’m honored to bring my voice to this board and to represent the many women leaders shaping the future of the credit union movement.”
By launching its advisory board, MSS is making a long-term investment in a model designed to help credit unions reduce costs through shared services while preserving their unique identities. The board will help guide MSS as it continues to scale, with a goal of reaching $8 to $10 billion in assets under service in the coming years.
“I’ve spent my career believing in the cooperative strength of credit unions, and I’ve seen what’s possible when that strength is put to work,” Foley said. “MSS gives credit unions the tools to stay independent, scale smartly, and tackle the operational challenges holding them back. I’m excited to help guide this next chapter.”
A look at the advisory board members:
- Gene Foley: The former CEO of Harvard University Employees Credit Union and now leads Focus Strategy Group, bringing over 25 years of executive credit union leadership and strategic consulting experience.
- Kirk Kordeleski: He is the former CEO of Bethpage Federal Credit Union and currently serves as a partner with PARC Street Partners, with more than 35 years of experience advising credit unions and fintechs on strategy, governance, and leadership.
- Erin Coleman: She is a SVP of Industry Impact at Callahan & Associates, with nearly 30 years of experience supporting credit unions through consulting, mentorship, and strategic facilitation.
