Executive compensation in the credit union industry is surging, with top leadership roles seeing notable increases in both base salaries and overall earnings.

According to the newly released 2025 Executive Compensation Survey Report from the Credit Union Executives Society, total compensation for credit union CEOs rose 10.2% year-over-year, driven largely by heightened bonus payouts.

The annual report, based on survey data collected in March, also revealed that a record 95.9% of CEOs are now eligible for bonuses. At credit unions with more than $5 billion in assets, CEO compensation now averages over $1.25 million, with bonuses reaching as high as 32.7% of base salary at the top end.

“Credit unions are investing strategically in their leaders—not only through compensation, but through professional development and long-term planning,” said Sharon Messmore, CUES Products & Services Manager. “In a competitive talent market, it’s clear that boards and executives are aligning on the value of leadership continuity and growth.”

The report also highlights a growing emphasis on educational attainment among credit union leaders.

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The proportion of executives with only an undergraduate degree declined to 60.9%, while nearly 40% now hold advanced degrees. MBAs account for 14%, and other master’s degrees comprise 16.3%.

Professional development spending has also climbed sharply. Average executive training and development costs hit $9,225 per person—eclipsing pre-pandemic levels and signaling a broader industry commitment to leadership cultivation.

CUES’ dual surveys—the Executive Compensation Survey and the Employee Salary Survey—collect compensation and benefit data for 23 executive roles and a broad array of non-executive positions. 

The National Credit Union Administration last summer contemplated a proposed rule that would require federal credit unions to provide information on executive compensation to their members.

Access to the full survey findings is available to CUES Unlimited+ members and by subscription.

Founded over 60 years ago, CUES focuses on developing purpose-driven leaders in the credit union space.

“In a competitive talent market, it’s clear that boards and executives are aligning on the value of leadership continuity and growth.”

 – Sharon Messmore
Products & Services Manager
Credit Union Executives Society