BROOKLYN, N.Y. -- The $1.1 billion Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union has hired a former CU employee to be its new CEO. Bogdan Chmielewski, 42, had worked for the credit union for nine years and became a branch manager in 2001.

Chmielewski then left the credit union and worked for a time as a vice president for HSBC bank in New York.

"Given his continued success at HSBC, coupled with his considerable credit union experience and his superb understanding of the Polish-American community, the Board felt Mr. Chmielewski made for the ideal candidate," said Krzysztof Matyszczyk, PSFCU's Chairman. "For those who had the pleasure of working with Bogdan during his time at the credit union, it became quite clear that this man would one day run an important bank or credit union. That 'one day' is today, as we are pleased to welcome back one of our own who, we are confident, will lead the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union toward a successful future."

"I have always had great affinity towards PSFCU and the credit union movement as a whole. It feels great to be back home." stated Chmielewski. "I am very honored to lead a credit union which for the past 30 years has been a pillar of the Polish-American community. Our credit union possesses great potential to grow and better serve our members. These will be the major areas of my concern as we move forward."