Vision Credit Union announced Tuesday, March 2, that President and Chief Executive Officer Steve Friend will retire April 30, following a 40-plus-year career with the organization, including 16 years as CEO.
The Board of Directors has ap-pointed Dan Hautzinger, currently Vision’s Chief Operating Officer, as President and CEO, effective April 1.
Friend joined Vision Credit Union in 1983, starting on the teller line and building his career by serving members face-to-face in rural Alberta communities.
Over the decades, he progressed through branch and corporate leadership roles and, in 2009, was appointed CEO following the sudden passing of longtime leader Terry Kelly.
“Steve has built a culture here that people are proud to be part of,” said Dan Hautzinger. “He leads quietly, supports his team and keeps the focus where it belongs – on members and community. He’s also the kind of leader who doesn’t shy away from change when it’s the right thing to do. Vision is stronger because of it.”
Under Friend’s leadership, Vision Credit Union grew from $494 million in assets to more than $2.6 billion, consistently delivering strong financial performance and operational efficiency.
During his tenure, Vision was recognized as Alberta’s Credit Union of the Year five times. Friend also championed the credit union’s profit share program for members and communities, in-creasing allocations from $5.9 million to a record $38.9 million in 2025.
“I’ve had the privilege of spending my whole career here, and I’m grateful for the people I’ve worked alongside,” said Friend. “Our employees care deep-ly about members and our communities, and they show up every day with pride in what we’re building together.
“To our members: thank you for your trust, and for letting us be part of your lives and your livelihoods. I’ve always been proud to steer this organization, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here.”
Friend is known for a steady, down-to-earth leadership style rooted in relationships, integrity, and a practical, opportunity focused approach.
During his time as CEO, he helped lead Vision through strategic growth that strengthened service for rural Albertans, including key mergers and expansion into new communities across the province. Today, Vision serves approximately 38,000 members through 24 branches across rural Alberta.
Dan Hautzinger brings more than 20 years of experience within the Alberta credit union system and has spent the past 16 years with Vision Credit Union in senior leadership roles.
As Chief Operating Officer, he has played a key role in advancing strategic initiatives, strengthening financial performance and reinforcing Vision’s commitment to cooperative values and member service.
“Dan’s leadership experience, deep understanding of our organization and longstanding commitment to our members make him the right person to lead Vision Credit Union into the future,” said Glenn Friesen, Chair of the Board of Directors.
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