Donovan Leaving CUNA, Will Join Federal Home Loan Bank System

Chief advocacy officer to depart credit union trade group after 15 years with the organization.

Ryan Donovan, chief advocacy officer at the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), is leaving the trade group to join the Council of Federal Home Loan Banks as its new president and CEO.

Donovan, an executive vice president and one of the highest profile credit union lobbyists, will join the council on Sep. 6.

“It is hard to lose such a staunch and tireless advocate, but I am so very proud of what Ryan has accomplished during his time at CUNA,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. “I’m not going to lie—Ryan’s leaving behind some pretty big shoes to fill.”

“I am immensely proud of the work we’ve done together—CUNA, Leagues and credit unions—to ensure credit unions remain in a position to improve their members’ financial well-being and advance the communities they serve,” Donovan added. “And I leave confident that momentum we have achieved will be sustained long into the future.”

A Long History With the Credit Union Group

Donovan has been at CUNA for almost 15 years, joining the trade group after serving as director of federal government affairs for the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues. He began his career working for former House Democratic Leader Rep. Richard Gephardt, D-Mo. He then joined the staff of Rep. Brad Sherman, D-Calif., as a legislative assistant and later as legislative director and acting chief of staff.

Officials from the Council of Federal Home Loan Banks are excited about Donovan joining the agency.

“Ryan brings almost two decades of advocacy and association experience that will help the Council and its banks effectively deliver a unified advocacy message to policymakers in Washington,” said Dan Moore, chairman of the organization.