Karen Roch’s approach to leadership can be distilled into three powerful directives: lead with empathy, build trust and inspire growth. As president and chief executive officer of Credit Union West, Roch has spent decades transforming these principles into an enduring culture of service and success, earning her recognition as a Titan 100 Honoree.
Roch’s ascent is a compelling narrative of determination. Over 35 years ago, a resolute 16-year-old embarked on a banking career marked by unwavering resolve, rapidly ascending through the ranks. Her visionary outlook led to significant roles at leading financial institutions, culminating in her current position at Credit Union West, where she continues to drive meaningful change. Roch’s journey highlights how sustained commitment, paired with strategic vision, can elevate both individual careers and entire organizations.
Under Roch’s leadership, Credit Union West has undergone significant and strategic growth. In the past three years alone, the organization expanded its geographic reach, significantly increased asset size and deepened community relationships. Roch played a pivotal role in introducing innovative services tailored specifically to community needs, solidifying the institution’s reputation as a reliable financial partner. Her strategic focus prioritizes member experience and financial wellness, contributing to sustained and impressive organizational success.
Aware of evolving workforce dynamics, Roch adopts a proactive stance. She regularly implements strategic training programs emphasizing leadership development, technological proficiency and emotional intelligence. By equipping employees with these vital skills, she ensures Credit Union West remains prepared to navigate future challenges. Roch’s long-term vision fosters an adaptive, resilient organizational culture capable of leveraging change to sustain excellence.
Roch consistently fuels her passion through authentic engagement with Credit Union West’s mission. Regular interactions with employees, members and the broader community invigorate her enthusiasm, making it tangible and inspiring to others. She deeply believes in people’s capacity to thrive, and openly shares this enthusiasm, motivating her teams and reinforcing collective purpose.
If Roch could instantly master any skill, it would be the profound ability to influence public policy through strategic advocacy and legislative reform. To Roch, this capability is more than a tool—it represents a transformative force able to enact enduring, systemic change. Mastering this skill would empower her to amplify Credit Union West’s mission and community impact, directly shaping policies that promote economic opportunity, financial stability and social progress on a larger scale.
Roch’s future vision for Credit Union West is ambitious yet grounded in community-centric values. She anticipates continued growth while maintaining unwavering dedication to member satisfaction and financial accessibility. Her aspiration is to guide an organization nationally recognized for excellence in service and community impact, continually adapting to meet evolving needs.
Among numerous professional milestones and accolades—including prestigious awards for leadership—Roch remains most proud of cultivating a vibrant organizational culture. For Roch, genuine success is measured by empowering those around her, embodying her steadfast belief that meaningful achievement is always collaborative.
