Valley Strong Credit Union Executive and Leadership Team

Steve Matejka, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, manages the daily operational execution of all banking and lending functions. Matejka directs the internal processes that facilitate efficient loan processing, deposit management, and member service delivery. By optimizing operational workflows, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the credit union maintains high standards of service quality across all branches. This leadership role involves overseeing the logistical aspects of financial operations, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet member needs. Steve Matejka monitors the performance of core business units, implementing improvements that enhance productivity and reduce operational friction. Through the coordination of branch activities and back-office functions, Matejka supports the overall growth strategy of the organization. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that every transaction reflects the commitment to the Kern County community.

Eddie Bedodo, the President, Business Banking Market at Valley Strong Credit Union, leads the expansion of commercial financial services and business lending initiatives. Bedodo architects the strategy for supporting local enterprises, providing tailored borrowing and investment solutions that drive economic development within the Kern County community. By building strong relationships with business owners, the President, Business Banking Market identifies opportunities to provide capital and financial guidance that foster regional growth. This leadership role involves managing the commercial loan portfolio and ensuring that business banking products remain competitive and accessible. Eddie Bedodo oversees the team of commercial bankers, guiding the development of customized financial packages that address the unique needs of diverse industries. Through proactive market engagement, Bedodo increases the footprint of the credit union in the business sector. The President, Business Banking Market ensures that commercial operations align with the broader mission of providing reliable, member-focused financial support to the entire community.

Marty Caywood, the Chief Information Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, directs the digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks necessary for modern financial services. Caywood architects scalable cloud solutions that protect member data while enhancing the accessibility of online banking platforms. By modernizing core banking systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration across all digital touchpoints. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging financial technologies to maintain a competitive edge within the California market. Marty Caywood manages the technical roadmap, aligning IT investments with the broader mission of providing secure, efficient financial tools. Through rigorous oversight of network integrity and data privacy protocols, Caywood supports the operational stability of the entire organization. The Chief Information Officer continuously optimizes internal workflows, enabling staff to deliver superior service to the Kern County community while mitigating risks associated with digital transformation.

Teri Nicholson, the Chief of Staff at Valley Strong Credit Union, coordinates executive operations and facilitates strategic alignment across all internal departments. Nicholson manages the flow of information to the leadership team, ensuring that organizational priorities remain focused on member-centric banking goals. By streamlining communication channels, the Chief of Staff improves decision-making speed and operational transparency. This role involves overseeing special projects that advance the long-term vision of the credit union within the regional financial landscape. Teri Nicholson monitors progress on key performance indicators, providing the necessary context for the executive team to adjust tactics as market conditions evolve. Through the facilitation of cross-functional collaboration, Nicholson drives efficiency in daily business processes. The Chief of Staff maintains a high standard of organizational discipline, ensuring that every initiative directly supports the core mission of providing accessible borrowing and investment services to the community.

Erin Estelle, the Senior Vice President I Chief Marketing Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, architects the brand identity and member acquisition strategies that define the organization's market presence. Estelle directs multi-channel campaigns designed to increase awareness of banking, borrowing, and investment services throughout the Kern County region. By analyzing consumer behavior data, the Senior Vice President I Chief Marketing Officer optimizes outreach efforts to ensure maximum engagement with the local community. This leadership role involves collaborating with product teams to translate complex financial offerings into clear, compelling value propositions for members. Erin Estelle manages the public relations and community engagement initiatives that solidify the reputation of the credit union as a trusted financial partner. Through strategic positioning, Estelle expands the reach of the organization, driving growth while maintaining the core values of service and accessibility that have defined the institution since 1938.

Mark Manns, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, designs the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies that sustain a high-performing workforce. Manns oversees the recruitment, training, and retention programs necessary to support the delivery of exceptional banking services. By fostering a culture of professional growth and inclusivity, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that staff members remain aligned with the mission of serving the Kern County community. This leadership role involves managing compensation structures and performance management systems that incentivize excellence across all departments. Mark Manns implements internal policies that promote employee well-being and operational compliance within the financial sector. Through the cultivation of leadership talent, Manns strengthens the organizational foundation, enabling the credit union to adapt to changing market demands. The Chief Human Resources Officer continuously refines human capital strategies to ensure the institution attracts and retains the expertise required for long-term success.