Curql, a collective of credit unions jointly investing in  fintech, today announced the appointment of Eli Vazquez, CEO and Managing Director of  BankFund Credit Union, to its Board of Managers. Vazquez brings more than three decades of  leadership experience in the credit union industry, financial services, and strategic innovation. 

Proven Leadership in Credit Unions and Innovation 

As CEO of BankFund Credit Union, Vazquez leads one of the most complex credit unions in the  United States, serving staff and families of the World Bank Group and International Monetary  Fund across the globe. Since assuming the role in 2013, he has grown BankFund’s assets from  $3.8 billion to $6.5 billion, expanded its lending portfolio by over $1 billion, and championed a  digital-first, data-driven approach to member service. His tenure includes introducing the  credit union’s first mobile banking solution, building a unified digital banking platform,  launching predictive analytics capabilities, and significantly enhancing cybersecurity  protections. 

Extensive Industry Experience and Governance Roles 

Prior to BankFund, Vazquez spent seven years at American Airlines Federal Credit Union in  executive roles including Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President of Mortgage and  Business Lending, and Senior Vice President of Card and Electronic Services. His leadership  extended beyond operations into governance, with board service for organizations such as  the National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU), the Southwest Regional Payments  Association, and the American Airlines Federal Credit Union. Vazquez also served on innovation  and advisory groups for Truestage, Engage FI, and Visa USA. 

Curql Leadership Perspective

“Eli has dedicated his career to ensuring credit unions not only serve their members  well today but are positioned for the future,” said Nick Evens, President & CEO of Curql  Collective. “His depth of experience, from growing member value to advancing  technology and innovation, will help strengthen Curql’s mission of bringing fintech  solutions to credit unions so they can better compete and remain relevant. Eli’s  perspective will be invaluable as we continue to move forward together.” 

“I’m honored to join Curql’s Board of Managers and serve alongside leaders who share  a deep commitment to the credit union movement,” said Vazquez. “Curql’s work, by  credit unions and for credit unions, aligns perfectly with my belief in collaboration,  innovation, and keeping our industry strong for generations to come. I look forward to  contributing to Curql’s efforts to connect credit unions with the fintech solutions that  matter most to their members.” 

Commitment to the Credit Union Movement 

Curql’s Board of Managers is composed of experienced credit union executives whose  collective expertise spans governance, strategic investment, technology adoption, and  member service. Together, they guide Curql’s work in sourcing, vetting, and investing in fintech  companies that empower credit unions to thrive in a competitive financial landscape.