Paul Treinen
Hours after being named permanent president/CEO of the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), Paul Treinen described the role as “an honor” and outlined his vision for what he calls “WOCCU 2.0.”
Treinen, who first joined WOCCU in 2017 after a long career at CUNA Mutual Group, returned from retirement earlier this year to serve as interim CEO. He stepped into the role at a pivotal moment, as the organization reeled from the termination of USAID development funding that had provided more than 90% of its project revenue.
“It’s kind of like you wake up one morning and it’s a completely different world,” Treinen told CU Times. He explained that the new strategic plan rests on three pillars: Strengthening international advocacy, expanding member services and promoting the broader global cooperative movement.
On advocacy, Treinen emphasized the need to ensure “right-sized” regulations across jurisdictions, with particular attention to Europe, where much of the world’s financial rulemaking originates. Member services will focus on enhancing networking, education and engagement through global and regional conferences. The cooperative pillar aims to build stronger ties with non-financial cooperatives worldwide, highlighting shared values and expanding development partnerships.
Treinen said WOCCU is also seeking funding diversification, noting new support from European governments, credit union foundations and private philanthropies. “We need to move beyond U.S. government dependence,” he said, citing recent partnerships with the Irish League of Credit Unions.
Reflecting on the shift from interim to permanent leader of WOCCU, Treinen added: “It’s flattering to have been asked to come back out of retirement. There’s an awesome future for this organization, and I’m excited to help lead it forward.”
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