About Us
San Francisco Federal Credit Union proudly serves the communities of San Francisco and San Mateo County. For nearly 70 years we have aligned our focus on the philosophy of “people helping people.” Starting with a humble beginning in 1954 at a kitchen table on Capp Street, to becoming the full-service, multi-branch financial institution we are today, we pride ourselves on making a difference in the financial lives of our members and dedicating time and resources to improving our communities.
As a not-for-profit cooperative, our board members are volunteers; we do not have stockholders demanding higher profits. Our earnings are returned to the membership by offering savings products with higher returns and loans with lower rates.
Philosophy and Core Values
San Francisco Federal Credit Union believes in strong driving principles to deliver exceptional member service. It is part of our mission to provide genuine, professional advice in a way that makes members feel comfortable and supported.
What is our mission?
We are a high-performing and empowered team of financial professionals serving Bay Area communities by providing innovative solutions that bring peace of mind and financial stability.
Credit Union employees look to our four core values for moral guidance and professional consistency when interacting with members.
Serve More
- Consistently and enthusiastically deliver exceptional member experiences
- Educate and proactively create solutions to members’ needs
- Treat members the way they want to be treated
Partner More
- Listen, support and respect diversity
- Collaborate to build effectiveness
- Encourage positive energy
Own More
- Follow through on commitments and be accountable
- Demonstrate integrity in every decision and action
- Take ownership in the Credit Union’s success
Be More
- Challenge yourself to seek opportunities for growth
- Be better than you were yesterday
- Be part of the solution
San Francisco Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution. We differ from big banks by offering higher earnings and dividends on deposits accounts, lower interest rates on loans and by charging fewer fees. Plus, members have access to more than 30,000 free ATMs across the country.
For over 65 years our mission has been to make financial life easier for our members and their families. San Francisco Federal Credit Union offers genuine, professional advice in a way that makes members feel comfortable and supported. We invite you to become a member and to take advantage of the many benefits we provide. Membership is open to those who live, work, go to school or worship in San Francisco or San Mateo counties.
Board Members
Press enter to activate each board member’s information slide belowSenior Leadership Team
Ray Shams
Chief Lending Officer
Ray Shams joined the Credit Union in 2017, bringing over 30 years of lending and risk management experience. Ray holds a Master of Business Administration from University of La Verne.
Peter Minford
Chief Financial Officer
Peter Minford joined the Credit Union in 2024. A seasoned professional with over 20 years experience as a CFO, and 40 years of leadership experience in financial services. Peter holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from Florida State University, an MBA from the University of South Florida and a diploma from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking.
Kirsten Madsen
Chief Operating Officer
Kirsten Madsen joined the credit union in 2023 and brings almost 30 years of banking and financial services experience. Kirsten holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California at Berkeley and an Executive Leadership certificate from UPenn Wharton Business School.
History
Our story started in 1954 when accountant George Trelut wanted to provide financial security for his family. In support of his fellow city employees, he sought to provide a responsible financial institution where everyone could obtain affordable loans, save money safely and gain a voice in their own financial experiences. Today, we continue to pursue and foster those same ideals.
Community
For San Francisco Federal Credit Union, being part of the community means a sense of responsibility to give back, in a variety of ways. We help community members become financially literate by offering numerous free webinars and seminars throughout the year. We help organizations who help the less fortunate by donating – whether it be through clothing or food drives, by donating money to charities or by employees volunteering through our CommunityShare program.