The board of directors of the Louisiana Credit Union League saidWednesday that Robert Gallman will become the new president/CEO ofthe statewide trade organization on March 1.

He succeeds the league's President/CEO Anne Cochran whoannounced her intent to retire last July after serving more than 40years in the movement.

For more than 20 years, Gallman has worked with the CornerstoneCredit Union League in Plano, Texas, the nation's largest regionalleague that serves credit unions in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.At the Cornerstone League, he held multiple leadership roles includingexecutive vice president, chief operations officer and chiefbusiness services officer. Previously, he served as the vicepresident and senior marketing officer at CUNA Mutual InsuranceCo.

“Bob knows the credit union business inside and out. Workingtogether, we look forward to strengthening and expanding ourfootprint throughout Louisiana,” said LCUL Board Chair Glen Beard.“His comprehensive knowledge of the day-to-day operations of ourmembers, alongside his experience implementing strategicinitiatives and developing business relationships, make himdistinctly qualified to lead the organization.”

The league's affiliation rate is nearly 96%, according to theLouisiana league's 2016 annual report. There are approximately 190Louisiana credit unions that serve more than 1.2 million members.“While the transition into retirement is bittersweet, I know that Iam leaving the league in the best hands possible,” Cochran said.“Bob's track record of effective and strategic leadership willguide the League through this transition and continue to grow ourexceptional organization.”