In a key shift on its lobbying team, CUNA said this week it haspromoted Ryan Donovan, vice president-legislative affairs, tosenior vice president and will head up the trade's “on-the-groundlobbying activities.” The promotion is effective today.

Donovan, who joined CUNA in September 2007, previously wasdirector of federal government affairs for the California andNevada Credit Union League, establishing the league's office inWashington.

CUNA noted that Donovan's promotion comes after CUNAPresident/CEO Bill Cheney in July detailed plans to expand theWashington office roles of John Magill, who was named executivevice president of government affairs and special assistant to thepresident, and Susan Newton, who became executive vice president ofsystem relations. Magill and Newton also assume their newduties on Sept 1.

Donovan will report to Magill.

“Ryan is an outstanding lobbyist and advocate for credit unions,well known and highly regarded on Capitol Hill,” said Cheney. “CUNAcontinues to benefit enormously from his experience, energy andinsight.”

Donovan previously worked for Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), handlinghis financial services committee issues before becoming legislativedirector and then chief of staff. Donovan first came to Washingtonto work for then-House Democratic leader Richard Gephardt(D-MO).