GTE Financial Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

GTE Financial has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, technology, human resources, and regional management.

Driven by a commitment to member success, GTE Financial operates as a not-for-profit financial cooperative, providing comprehensive financial services and fostering community growth through accessible banking solutions.

Leadership Roles at GTE Financial

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Brian Best
  • Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer - Ashley Stimatz
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Bradford Baker
  • President - Wendell Sebastian
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Chad Burney
  • Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer - Jasiel Legon
  • Brian Best - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Brian Best, the President & Chief Executive Officer at GTE Financial, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the financial cooperative. Overseeing all major business units, Best ensures alignment with the organization's mission to serve its members and the Tampa community. This leadership role involves driving innovation in financial services, expanding market reach, and maintaining the cooperative's strong financial health. By fostering a culture of excellence and member-centricity, Brian Best guides GTE Financial's growth and impact. The President & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include setting long-term objectives, managing key stakeholder relationships, and championing the cooperative's commitment to providing accessible checking & savings, credit cards, loans, investment, and insurance services. Best's strategic direction ensures GTE Financial remains a trusted financial partner.

    Ashley Stimatz - Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer

    Ashley Stimatz, the Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer at GTE Financial, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership. Managing key initiatives and facilitating communication across departments, Stimatz ensures efficient execution of the President and Chief Executive Officer's directives. This role involves streamlining operations, enhancing organizational effectiveness, and driving special projects that align with GTE Financial's strategic goals. By acting as a liaison between leadership and various teams, Ashley Stimatz fosters collaboration and ensures seamless workflow. The Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include preparing executive reports, managing schedules, and overseeing the implementation of critical business strategies. Stimatz's support is vital for the effective functioning of the executive office.

    Bradford Baker - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Bradford Baker, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at GTE Financial, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Baker ensures robust capital management, accurate financial reporting, and compliance with regulatory standards. This critical role involves developing and implementing financial strategies that support GTE Financial's growth objectives and member value proposition. By analyzing market trends and economic conditions, Bradford Baker provides insights to guide investment decisions and optimize resource allocation. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's duties extend to managing risk, overseeing budgeting processes, and ensuring the long-term financial stability of the not-for-profit cooperative. Baker's financial acumen is essential for sustaining the delivery of comprehensive financial services.
    Bradford Baker

    Wendell Sebastian - President

    Wendell Sebastian, the President at GTE Financial, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight across key business functions. Leading specific divisions, Sebastian ensures the effective delivery of financial services and alignment with the cooperative's overarching goals. This executive position involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and championing the organization's commitment to member satisfaction and community support. By guiding operational strategies, Wendell Sebastian contributes to the financial stability and growth of GTE Financial. The President's responsibilities include overseeing departmental performance, implementing strategic plans, and ensuring adherence to the cooperative's not-for-profit principles. Sebastian's leadership is vital for advancing GTE Financial's market presence and member value.

    Chad Burney - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Chad Burney, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at GTE Financial, directs the organization's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of information technology, Burney ensures the security, reliability, and scalability of systems supporting GTE Financial's comprehensive financial services. This leadership position involves driving technological innovation to enhance member experience, optimize operational efficiency, and safeguard sensitive data. By evaluating emerging technologies, Chad Burney guides the implementation of solutions that support checking & savings, credit cards, loans, investment, and insurance offerings. The Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, leading the technology team, and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures. Burney's expertise is crucial for maintaining GTE Financial's competitive edge in the digital landscape.

    Jasiel Legon - Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer

    Jasiel Legon, the Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer at GTE Financial, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. Overseeing all aspects of employee relations, recruitment, and professional development, Legon cultivates a positive and productive work environment. This executive role focuses on attracting, retaining, and developing a skilled workforce that supports GTE Financial's mission and member-centric approach. By implementing innovative HR policies, Jasiel Legon ensures compliance, promotes diversity and inclusion, and enhances employee engagement across the financial cooperative. The Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer's responsibilities include shaping organizational culture, managing compensation and benefits, and driving initiatives that foster employee growth. Legon's leadership is instrumental in building a high-performing team.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding GTE Financial Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads GTE Financial?
    GTE Financial is led by Brian Best (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ashley Stimatz (Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer) and Bradford Baker (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of GTE Financial’s executive team?
    The executive team of GTE Financial includes leaders such as Brian Best (President & Chief Executive Officer), Ashley Stimatz (Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer), Bradford Baker (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does GTE Financial have?
    GTE Financial has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in GTE Financial’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of GTE Financial includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief of Staff To President and Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer.