First Financial Federal Credit Union CEO Eric Church Retires After 42 Years

First Financial Federal Credit Union has announced that CEO Eric Church, who has led the credit union for more than a decade, will retire from his position effective October 5, 2026. Current President James Wheeler will assume the roles of President and CEO of the $1.4 billion financial institution, ensuring a smooth and strategic leadership transition.

Church began his 42-year financial career as a CPA with local accounting firm Stegman & Company in 1983. After working with many commercial clients and a concentration in credit unions, Eric was hired by one of his clients - First Financial Federal Credit Union - as the credit union's new Vice President of Finance and Information Technology in 1994. During the next 20 years, he led the credit union's finance, accounting, and technology functions while working closely with the Board of Directors to help shape its strategic direction.

In 2015, Church was named President/CEO. Under his leadership, First Financial increased assets by $485 million, loans by $686 million, and shares by $431 million. Membership grew by more than 21,000 members, and the credit union added more than 100 employees.

Along the way, the credit union reached several important milestones, including purchasing its headquarters in Sparks, Maryland, and relocating First Financial from Lutherville. He also led three successful credit union mergers, strengthening First Financial's presence throughout the region and bringing more than 4,000 new members to the credit union.

A Baltimore County native, Church attended Baltimore County Public Schools and graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and certificates in Accounting and Finance. Outside of work, he and his wife, Alison, cherish time spent with their two children and four grandchildren.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve First Financial and our membership for over three decades. When I first joined this credit union, I saw a mission-driven organization committed to helping people build a stronger financial future together," said Eric Church in a statement. "I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished over the years, and as I begin the next chapter, I know First Financial is in great hands with James Wheeler and the talented employees who will continue building on our success and moving the credit union forward."

Wheeler, who was appointed President in October 2025, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer upon Church's retirement. Bringing extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to First Financial's mission, Wheeler is well prepared to lead the credit union into its next chapter. His appointment provides a seamless transition while positioning the organization for continued growth, innovation, and service to its members and the community.