Senior LEADERSHIP Team
Our senior leadership team members bring extensive experience and knowledge to the organization. They drive Affinity Plus forward by advocating for a strong membership and the growth of the credit union industry. And they’re passionate about serving our members and employees with care, integrity, and a commitment to learning.
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Dave Larson
President/CEODave Larson is the President and CEO of Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union since 2013. Prior to becoming President, Dave served as Senior Vice President of Affinity Plus for 9 years. As CEO, Dave led the turnaround effort to strengthen and rebuild the credit union. In 2018 and 2020, Dave was recognized by the Star Tribune as “Top CEO” among large companies. He was named to the Minnesota 500 list of “Most Powerful Business Leaders in Minnesota” the past 5 years. In 2019, Dave was honored as a Minnesota Credit Union “Outstanding Professional of the Year.” Under his leadership, Affinity Plus was named a “Top 150 Workplace” and designated “Best Credit Union in Minnesota” by Forbes 5 years in a row. In 2022, Dave was inducted into the Credit Union House Hall of Leaders. Dave has a genuine care for the employees, the credit union’s members, and the communities that Affinity Plus serves. Dave is also the Board Chair for the Board of Directors of Special Olympics Minnesota, and a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Saint Thomas. -
Brian Volkmann
Executive Vice President/Chief Financial OfficerBrian Volkmann is the Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer at Affinity Plus, a role he has held since May of 2016. He oversees Accounting, Finance, Lending, Marketing, Information Technology, Digital Services, Enterprise Data Intelligence, and Branches and Contact Centers. Brian joined Affinity Plus in 2000 as a branch manager, and during his career he has held various leadership positions within the credit union, most recently as Chief Financial Officer. Brian serves on several boards within the credit union industry and the community, including Dora and CU Student Choice. He volunteers with Financial Executives International – Twin Cities chapter as President of the Board. Brian’s success led to Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal recognition in 2019 where he received the “CFO of the Year” award. Brian holds a MS in Finance and a MBA from Indiana University. -
Julie Cosgrove
Chief Talent OfficerJulie Cosgrove is the Chief Talent Officer at Affinity Plus. In this capacity, she leads strategic direction of the Human Resources and Learning and Development teams. Julie is focused on the experience of Affinity Plus employees, including talent management, development and training, diversity and inclusion, employee engagement, and total rewards and compensation. In September of 2015, Julie returned to Affinity Plus, having previously worked for the credit union from 2000-2012 and establishing herself as a leader in a variety of capacities. Julie was recognized in 2022 as one of the Women in Business honorees by the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal, and was also a 2022 honoree for the Notable Women in Banking and Finance award by Twin Cities Business Magazine. Julie serves on the Board of Directors for Callahan & Associates and is an active volunteer for Make a Wish MN. -
Teri Laufers
Chief Information OfficerTeri Laufers is Chief Information Officer for Affinity Plus. She has nearly 30 years of credit union industry experience, joining Affinity Plus in 2014. She leads a growing, evolving team of Information Technology professionals, with her purview including operations, applications, system administration, software, technical support, testing, and development. Teri is an advocate for change and has a strong desire to bring superior technology solutions to Affinity Plus members and employees. She led significant organizational change as the executive sponsor of Affinity Plus’ core processing and digital banking system conversions in 2018. Her success led to Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal recognition where she received the 2019 "Women in Business" award. Throughout her career, Teri has shared her knowledge and expertise serving on several industry committees, technology councils and software user groups. -
Corey Rupp
Chief Retail OfficerCorey Rupp is the Chief Retail Officer at Affinity Plus. He joined Affinity Plus in 2004 as a branch manager. In his current capacity, Corey oversees all aspects of lending at Affinity Plus including consumer, business, student, and real estate lending, along with all retail operations—which include the statewide branch network, digital branch, and call centers. Corey is focused on creating innovative, valuable lending products, staying ahead of member needs and delivering an exceptional experience no matter how members want to interact with Affinity Plus. Corey is also involved with several organizations in his local community. And when he’s not chasing his four kids around to various athletic and school activities, Corey enjoys spending time at the lake and being in the great outdoors. -
Bill Urick
Chief Operating OfficerBill Urick is the Chief Operating Officer at Affinity Plus, a role he has held since 2013. Bill joined Affinity Plus in 2006 with a background in operations and finance and served as the credit union’s Controller, Vice President of Finance, and Chief Financial Officer before becoming COO. Prior to Affinity Plus, Bill spent 9 years at U.S. Bank working in various roles within the Treasury Management Operations and Product Management groups. As COO, Bill leads the credit union’s investment services, payment systems, compliance, card services, and other operational areas. -
Cary Tonne
Senior Vice President, Information SecurityCary Tonne is the Senior Vice President of Information Security at Affinity Plus. In this capacity, he ensures that the Information Security Program for the credit union advances to protect members and employees alike. During his 20 plus years with the credit union, Cary has led a variety of teams including information security, information technology, and project management. Cary is currently an advisory board member for NCU-ISAO, a member of various security organizations, and currently holds the CISM certification. -
Mahesh Marepalli
Vice President of Data Strategy, Governance & AnalyticsMahesh Marepalli is the Vice President leading and developing analytics and business intelligence competency at Affinity Plus. He has over 25 years experience leading successful ERP, Enterprise Business Intelligence implementations and large-scale Financial Transformations. His experience centers on developing innovative solutions in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning and Business Intelligence (BI) associated with solid enterprise data strategy. Mahesh built and led the North American Oracle Business Intelligence practice at IBM Global Business Services and led BI service at "Big 4" consulting firms. He directed global BI and AI projects for FORTUNE 500 clients and aided in their transformation to data driven organizations. Mahesh holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics & Computer Science from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, India. -
Jenny Neubeck
Vice President of Remote ServicesJenny Neubeck is the Vice President of Remote Services at Affinity Plus. She currently leads all aspects of our multi-channel Contact Center and Remote Services, including online lending and digital new memberships. Jenny joined Affinity Plus in 2012 and has developed a keen understanding of data and trends during her career. Her focus has been on technology that will enhance the member experience when communicating and interacting with Affinity Plus through our remote channels, including phone, chat, video, and SMS. In support of those efforts, she holds a certification in Call Center Management. Jenny also serves on the Executive Committee and is the Treasurer for the NTC Foundation Board. -
Manuela Keeling
Vice President of Branch ServicesManuela Keeling is the VP of Branch Services with oversight of the Affinity Plus branch network. Manuela joins Affinity Plus with over 18 years of financial services experience. She recently graduated from CUNA Management School and received her Certified Credit Union Executive degree. At Affinity Plus, Manuela's priorities include advancing the not-for-profit’s commitment to exemplary member service, and a keen focus on innovation in order to help support member communities during uncertain and evolving financial times. Manuela was born and raised in Germany and moved to the United States in 2003 after graduating from Berufskolleg Kaufmännische Schulen Düren with a degree in Business and Managerial Economics. She later got a mini Masters of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas. -
Nic Peterson
Vice President of Payment SystemsNic Peterson is Affinity Plus’ Vice President of Payment Systems. In this capacity, he oversees the payment products and initiatives including debit, credit and prepaid cards, checking products, ATMs, and the rewards program. Along with payments, he also leads the Facilities Management Team at the credit union. Nic joined Affinity Plus in 1998 and during his 25 years has worked in various front office, back office, and leadership roles. Nic currently serves on the AmpliFI Partner Advisory Council. -
Natalie Okonek
VIce President of Consumer LendingNatalie Okonek is the Vice President of Consumer Lending at Affinity Plus. In this capacity, she leads all aspects of the consumer loan experience from loan application to loan servicing. Her focus has been on implementing programs, products, services, and technologies to create an enhanced consumer lending experience for the credit union’s members. Natalie joined Affinity Plus in 2010 and, prior to her role today has led a variety of teams across the organization including branch and call center teams. Natalie currently serves on the TransUnion Credit Union Advisory Board and the Origence User Group. She has passion for process and system enhancement, and is driven to strengthen the Consumer Lending member and employee experience. -
John Simonsen
Vice President of Real EstateJohn Simonsen is the Vice President of Real Estate at Affinity Plus. He leads all aspects of the Real Estate experience—from day 1 of the loan application, to the servicing of the mortgage loan after it funds, and beyond. John focuses on delivering a superior mortgage loan experience to our members though an easy, efficient, and automated approach. He strives to implement new programs, products, and services to help as many members as possible buy a home, obtain a lower rate, consolidate debt, complete a home improvement, and more. John joined Affinity Plus in 2003. Prior to his current role, he led a variety of teams across the organization, including the Solutions (collections) team. -
Joel Swanson
Vice President of MarketingJoel Swanson, APR, MACT leads Marketing for Affinity Plus, as well as public relations and the community engagement work that includes the Affinity Plus Foundation. Now in his fifth year at Affinity Plus, his mighty Marketing team has successfully implemented a brand refresh, data-driven automated marketing platform, market-dominating digital marketing strategy, modern community engagement strategy and a sustainable growth engine for products and branches – helping spur record new member and financial growth. And we’re just getting started! Joel serves on the Board of Directors for the Affinity Plus Foundation, currently as Treasurer; while participating in professional organizations such the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) – as well as industry organizations such as PRSA’s Banking and Finance Section, the Minnesota Credit Union Network, and Callahan & Associates Marketing Roundtable. Joel’s career spans almost 30 years of guiding communications and marketing strategy in highly regulated, fast-changing industries. In his personal time, Joel fights for space in the backyard to play catch with his four sons while fending off affection from the family’s 260 pounds of dog (a Saint Bernard and a Newfoundland). -
Tim Tacheny
Vice President, General CounselTim Tacheny is the Affinity Plus Vice President – General Counsel. Prior to joining Affinity Plus, Tim was General Counsel for the Minnesota Credit Union Network, the state trade association for credit unions. In that role, Tim provided legal and compliance guidance to credit unions, advocated for credit unions on legal and regulatory matters, and was the chief legal officer for the Network and its affiliated entities. He also helped lead the formation of an association health plan for Minnesota credit unions. Tim’s legal experience includes civil litigation, probate, and banking compliance. -
Jessica Volkmann
Vice President of Compliance and OperationsJessica Volkmann is the Vice President of Compliance and Operations. She currently oversees the Compliance team and is responsible for the internal audit program, regulatory compliance, and the Credit Union’s Bank Secrecy Act program. She also oversees the credit union’s Operations Department, the Document Management/Retention Department, and the Vendor Management/Third Party Risk Department. Jessica holds several certifications including a BSACS (Bank Secrecy Act Compliance Specialist), CUCE (Credit Union Compliance Expert), CRVPM (Certified Regulatory Vendor Program Manager), and CFS (Certified Fraud Specialist). She is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Affinity Plus Foundation and is a member of the Regulatory Review Committee with the Minnesota Credit Union Network. Jessica joined Affinity Plus in 2004 and is passionate about providing exceptional service to our members and enriching the communities we serve. -
Maha Brauch
Director of Digital ServicesMaha Brauch is the Director of Digital Services at Affinity Plus, where she leads the innovation and execution of digital experiences and strategy. As the banking landscape shifts to more web and mobile than traditional in-person experiences, Maha and her team are shaping the way Affinity Plus interacts with our members. She’s a huge advocate of continually enhancing and optimizing, and introducing new technologies and solutions to delight our members, make their lives easier, and make banking more secure. Since joining Affinity Plus in 2012, Maha’s held various positions across the organization. She’s passionate about giving members an outstanding experience, offering them convenient digital options as much as possible, and improving process to save everyone time. Maha was featured in the Credit Union Times for helping Affinity Plus deliver first-in-class digital banking, including a 4.8-rated mobile app. -
Jennifer Klapak
Director of Human Resources and Learning & DevelopmentJennifer Klapak is the Director of Human Resources and the Learning & Development teams. Jennifer joined Affinity Plus in 2019. Prior to her current role she led a variety of work in partnership with HR and leadership focused on employee engagement, change management, performance management, and talent development for over 20 years. Her passion is to enable employees and leaders to be their best, which in turn allows us to best serve our members. -
Jake Kuester
Director of Business ServicesJake Kuester is the Director of Business Services. In his current capacity he leads all aspects of Business Services including Commercial and Small Business Lending, Deposit Services, Business Development, and New Member Acquisition. Jake has spent his entire career in the Financial Services industry, and the past 10 years working with business owners helping them start, grow, and expand their businesses. -
Kotchi W. Prosper
Director of Investment and Retirement ServicesAs Director of Investment and Retirement Services, Kotchi has the privilege to lead the Affinity Plus Investment Center. He ensures that the commitment to our members’ long-term financial success continues and grows. This includes marketing, long term planning, developing product and service selections as well as day to day management of the Advisors services and Estate planning services. Kotchi joined Affinity Plus in 2005. -
Amber Shanley
Director of Branch ServicesAmber Shanley is the Director of Branch Services. She started at Affinity Plus in 2009 as a temporary employee. Her entire tenure has been within the branch network, as her passion is helping employees and members achieve their goals. Amber is committed to empowering underserved communities through financial services, education, and advocacy. Amber owns Affinity Plus’ relationship with Gopher Sports and has built that partnership into the success it is today. Amber recently completed her MBA at the University of St. Thomas and holds a graduate certificate in Transformational Change & Organizational Development. Amber serves on two boards, the Twin Cities Chapter of MNCUN and the Affinity Plus Foundation. Amber enjoys spending time as “Auntie Amber” with her many nieces and nephews, and catching sports events while exploring landmarks and cities across the US. -
Jacquie Twedt
Director of OperationsJacquie Twedt is the Director of Operations at Affinity Plus. She has nearly 20 years of credit union experience and joined Affinity Plus in 2011. She currently has oversight of the Operations Department, Document Management Department, IRAs & HSAs, Quality Control, and Fraud. Jacquie holds several payments accreditations including her AAP (Accredited ACH Professional), APRP (Accredited Payments Risk Professional), and NCP (National Check Professional). In 2021, Jacquie joined the Affinity Plus Foundation Board of Directors which compliments her passion for collectively contributing to the betterment of the communities in our state. Jacquie is committed to improving the member experience through meaningful innovation and equitable access to financial services.