Executive Team
Community First CEO Scott Johnson joined the credit union in 2021 and comes from an impressive career background, holding multiple leadership roles with an emphasis in technology management. Previously serving as both Chief Strategy Officer and later Chief Revenue Officer at Unify Financial Credit Union, Scott also managed the investments of the credit union. Before joining the credit union industry, Scott was the Chief Technology Officer at Pacific Life Insurance Company and held multiple information technology roles during his tenure there. He brings this deep understanding of technology application and hopes to help foster the further growth and forward momentum of Community First.
Andy joined CFCU in 2022. He hails from the Midwest where he has led the marketing teams of several credit unions. Prior to credit unions, he worked in ad agencies working with financial clients such as USAA and T. Rowe price. Currently, the Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Andy heads up the marketing team as well as the Digital Banking team. He has an MBA in Marketing from the University of Missouri.
Chris Kraemer is the Chief Information Officer for Community First Credit Union. Chris grew up in Ukiah, California. Chris left Ukiah to attend ITT Technical Institute where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Engineering Technologies. Chris returned to his hometown and began his career at the credit union, where he has provided technological solutions and support for over two decades. Chris provides strategic planning and oversight for all the credit union’s information technology systems and equipment.
With an Executive MBA in business analytics at Saint Mary’s College of California and a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Fitzgerald offers nearly two decades of credit union expertise in finance, accounting, collections, and card services. As a passionate executive, he drives strategic initiatives through effective collaboration and continuously seeks opportunities to leverage his skills for the betterment of the organization. Known for a blend of analytical prowess and a solid financial background, Fitzgerald remains committed to driving sustainable growth and delivering impactful outcomes.
Rick serves as Chief Risk Officer with responsibilities for Internal Audit, Vendor Management, Compliance, Cannabis Banking, and overall Risk Management. He has eight years executive experience in the CU industry including as a former CEO. Rick has an extensive banking career with 17 years at the Federal Reserve Bank and held senior leadership roles in a 15-year career with ADP, where he currently serves on the Board of ADP Trust Company. His BA is in Business Administration and Economics with Advanced Management studies at Duke University. Rick currently resides in coastal Georgia and splits time between there and CFCU.
Cary joined Community First in April of 2023 with more than 20 years of lending leadership experience at credit unions, including oversight of origination, processing, funding, servicing, and collections. Cary has served on multiple industry councils and committees, including Experian, CUNA Lending Council, and Origence. Cary earned her bachelor’s in management from the University of Phoenix and is currently pursuing her MBA with the University of Phoenix with an expected graduation in 2024. Cary is a wife of 24 years and a mother to two children. Cary spends her spare time shopping, entertaining and volunteering her time at local schools.
Monika Besancon joined CFCU in 2009 and has held several senior leadership roles during her tenure; Vice President Mortgage Lending, Chief Lending Officer and currently as Chief Operating Officer leading the branch network, contact center and card services teams. Monika’s career spans credit unions, mortgage companies and fintechs. When Monika is not working, she enjoys RV’ing with family and friends, babysitting her grand dogs, browsing antique shops, and volunteering at local non-profit organizations in her community.
Sara joined Community First in 2007 and currently oversees Human Resources and Learning & Development. Sara has been with three credit unions over a span of 19 years. The past 11 years she has specialized in Human Resources at Community First. Sara earned a B.A. in Human Communication at Southern Oregon University in 2005, and a Masters of Science in Human Resources Management & Organizational Leadership from Regis University in 2012. Sara graduated from the Leadership Santa Rosa program in 2020. Sara is the mother of three busy children. Sara enjoys spending her free time trying new local restaurants, exercising, and traveling.
