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Five County CU is thrilled to announce six recent promotions. This development continues a strong culture of opportunity that supports the growth of internal talent into positions of importance at the credit union.
Kara Elwell
Kara Elwell was promoted to the newly-established position of Regional Branch Operations Manager. This well-deserved advancement recognizes Elwell’s outstanding contributions, leadership, and unwavering commitment to supporting the credit union’s branch teams and the broader organization.
Over the years, from working in the call center to serving as a Branch Manager, Elwell has exemplified exceptional dedication and collaboration—consistently going above and beyond to ensure the success of her branches and other teams. Her ability to foster teamwork, address challenges with innovative solutions, and provide steadfast support has made a lasting impact on Five County CU’s operations and overall success. Over the past few years, Elwell has served as Branch Manager of the Auburn-Augusta branches.
In her new role, she will oversee the operations of branches in Augusta, Auburn, Waterville, Skowhegan, Brunswick, Bath, and Rockland. Her proven leadership and passion for excellence makes her the ideal choice to guide these teams as they continue to deliver exceptional service to members.
“Kara’s promotion to Regional Branch Operations Manager is a reflection of her tireless efforts and remarkable achievements,” said Kim Hutchins, VP Branch Operations at Five County CU. “We are confident that she will continue to lead our branch teams with the same enthusiasm, dedication, and excellence that have defined her career.”
Karyn Cormier
Karyn Cormier has been promoted to Talent Development Manager. Cormier has been an integral part of the credit union’s Talent Development team, demonstrating exceptional dedication, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to fostering employee growth within the organization.
Cormier joined the credit union in 2014 as a Teller and later served as a Lender in Windham. In 2019, she transitioned to the Talent Development team as a Talent Development Officer, where she spearheaded the creation of the lender and new account training programs. From 2021 to 2023, Cormier further honed her skills as a Learning & Development Specialist at the Maine Credit Union League and Synergent, where she played a key role in advancing the training enterprise. In 2023, the credit union was thrilled to welcome her back as its Talent Development Specialist.
“Throughout her career with us, Cormier has consistently gone above and beyond to shape innovative development programs and empower employees to achieve their goals,” said Shaun Carr, VP of Talent Development & Human Resources at Five County CU. “Her passion for learning and her collaborative approach has made her an invaluable asset to credit union’s team.”
In her new role as Talent Development Manager, Cormier will lead the charge in elevating talent initiatives, driving innovation, and ensuring employees continue to thrive and grow.
Celeste Brissette
Celeste Brissette has been promoted to the new Auburn Branch Manager. Brissette’s journey with Five County CU spans five years, beginning as a Teller in the Auburn branch. Her exceptional dedication and skills quickly propelled her into a lending position, followed by her role as Assistant Branch Manager.
Brissette has been instrumental in driving the Auburn branch’s growth over the past few years. Her leadership, commitment, and innovative approach has ensured the branch’s success and bright future. In her new role, she will continue fostering excellence and delivering exceptional service to members.
“I am incredibly fortunate to have Celeste on my team and look forward to seeing everything she continues to accomplish,” said Kara Elwell, Regional Branch Operations Manager at Five County CU. “Her promotion is a testament to her hard work, and I have no doubts she will continue to make a significant impact in Auburn and beyond.”
Jeromy Cyr
Jeromy Cyr has been promoted as the new Augusta Branch Manager. Cyr’s remarkable 12-year journey with Five County CU began as a Teller in the Augusta branch. Over the years, he gained valuable experience in the training department, returned to Augusta as a lender, and most recently served as Assistant Branch Manager.
Cyr’s deep knowledge of the Augusta branch and his strong background made him the perfect choice to lead its continued growth and success. His leadership and dedication to excellence will ensure the branch remains a cornerstone of Five County’s organization.
“I am incredibly fortunate to have Jeromy on my team and look forward to seeing everything he continues to accomplish,” added Elwell. “His promotion is a reflection of his hard work and commitment, and I am confident he will continue to make a significant impact in Augusta and with our members.”
Danene Gill
Danene Gill has been promoted to Branch Manager Trainee. This new role marks an exciting first step in her journey into formal leadership, where she will gain valuable experience and continue to grow her skills.
Since joining Five County CU in 2020, Gill has established herself as a natural leader and a key member of the team. As a seasoned lender, she consistently rises to every challenge, offering unwavering support to her manager and colleagues. Her dedication has shone brightly over the years—navigating staffing challenges to stepping in as acting leader during her manager’s extended leave. Additionally, Gill has taken on significant projects and assisted other departments.
Her hard work and leadership did not go unnoticed, as she was honored with the 2024 Five County CU Leadership Award—a peer-nominated accolade celebrating exceptional leadership by non-managers.
Sapphire Fleming
Sapphire Fleming was promoted to the newly-created position of Internal Auditor. Fleming has been a dedicated member of the credit union for four years, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and eagerness to learn and grow within the organization. She began working for the credit union as a teller and then moved to Quality Assurance.
In this role, Fleming will focus on ensuring operational integrity, enhancing internal processes, and maintaining the highest standards of compliance. Her skills and dedication make her the perfect fit to take on this important responsibility.
“We look forward to seeing Sapphire succeed and develop in this vital position,” said Ken Stockford, Chief Financial Officer at Five County CU. “Her hard work and determination have been evident throughout her time with us, and we are confident she will excel as our Internal Auditor.”