President and CEO Rob Werner Announces Plans to Retire in 2027
PHILADELPHIA (August 12, 2026) – Ardent Credit Union today announced President and CEO Rob Werner will retire at the end of the first quarter of 2027, concluding nearly 14 years of leadership during which the organization experienced significant growth, embraced innovation and strengthened its commitment to serving more than 35,000 members and employees.Werner, who joined Ardent in June 2013, will remain president and CEO until a successor is named by Ardent’s Board of Directors. The Board has initiated a comprehensive national search process to identify the credit union’s next president and CEO, with support from executive recruiting firm JSpire Recruiting. A successor is expected to be announced early next year.
Throughout the search and leadership transition, Ardent’s services and daily operations will continue without interruption. Members will continue to receive the same award-winning service, personal attention and innovative financial solutions from Ardent’s dedicated employees.
“Rob’s vision and leadership have transformed Ardent into a stronger, more innovative and more accessible credit union,” said Gloria Wilson, chair of Ardent Credit Union’s Board of Directors. “Equally important, Rob has led with integrity and a genuine commitment to putting Ardent’s members and employees first. We are grateful for his service and are confident in the leadership team and the strong foundation he has built to guide Ardent into the future.”
During Werner’s tenure, Ardent experienced significant growth and transformation, evolving from an institution primarily serving one employee group into a credit union for the Philadelphia region, now with membership eligibility extended nationwide. He led the organization’s 2016 rebrand from Sb1 Federal Credit Union to Ardent Credit Union, establishing a new identity rooted in the passion, grit and determination of the region.
Among Werner’s most significant achievements:
- Ardent grew from approximately $500 million in assets to nearly $900 million, expanded its branch network to 9 locations, enhanced its digital and lending capabilities and introduced unique programs to better serve members’ evolving financial needs. These programs include Auto Buying Concierge and a renovation loan that boosts a homeowner’s borrowing power.
- He led the invention of Ardent’s patented modular Upper Providence branch, a small footprint concept that expands on rails at the push of a button.
- He also built a strong leadership team and fostered a culture focused on adaptability, collaboration and challenging traditional approaches to banking.
“Helping to build a financial cooperative that reflects the grit and determination of our region has been an incredible privilege,” Werner said. “I am proud of how Ardent has grown, but I am proudest of the team we have built and the thousands of members we have helped reach their financial goals. Every decision I have made has been guided by what was best for our members and the employees who serve them. Their trust, dedication and belief in our mission have made this experience deeply meaningful.”
Werner was named one of the Philadelphia Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs in 2016 and received a SmartCEO Money Manager Award in 2015. He is a past chair and current board member of Trellance Cooperative Holdings, LLC and previously chaired the Delaware Valley Council of CUES. During his tenure, Ardent was voted gold winner in the “Philly Favorite” credit union category by readers of The Philadelphia Inquirer in 2024, 2025 and 2026 and was featured on the nationally syndicated TV show "World's Greatest" in 2025.
Ardent will share additional information about its next president and CEO after the Board completes its search.
ABOUT ARDENT CREDIT UNION
Voted Philly’s favorite credit union three years in a row by the readers of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Ardent Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative. Originally founded in 1977 by the employees of the SmithKline Corporation, Ardent has nearly $900 million in member assets. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Ardent serves the Philadelphia region and beyond. For more information, visit ArdentCU.org or call 800.806.9465.