Leadership Team

Cynthia-Crouch-Portrait

Cynthia Crouch

Chief Experience Officer

Cynthia Crouch brings over 20 years of leadership in the financial services industry to Firstmark, most recently with Sound Credit Union ($3B, Tacoma, WA), where she’s served as vice president of payments and operations since June 2019. With a proven track record of success in leading enterprise-wide initiatives, driving growth, and enhancing member satisfaction, her extensive, high-level experience is a welcome addition to Firstmark’s executive team.

Throughout her career, Crouch has specialized in various areas, including branch and contact center transformation, payment systems modernization, compliance, strategic partnerships, and is recognized as a team builder with a strong reputation for delivering results in highly regulated environments. Prior to her role at Sound Credit Union, she held several leadership positions, including director of call center operations at Qualstar Credit Union ($872M, Bothell, WA) and director of relationship services at Woodstone Credit Union (Federal Way, WA), overseeing branch and contact center operations.

Mike Grundon

Michael Grundon

Chief Financial Officer

Michael Grundon serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Firstmark Credit Union, bringing to the role over 30 years of experience in the financial industry. Recognized for his fiscal stewardship and strategic planning, Michael welcomes the fortuity to develop solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the credit union’s members.

A devoted supporter for higher-level learning, Michael is a proud member of the SAISD Foundation Board of Directors and is passionate about helping underprivileged students receive opportunities to further their education. In addition, he is an advocate for environmental preservation, which includes protecting natural resources, such as keeping our oceans pollution-free.

In his spare time, Michael enjoys the culinary arts and the great outdoors, never missing out on the chance to try new recipes or catch the next wave as an avid surfer. He also loves taking in the sights and sounds of nature in general, including hikes with his dog, Houdini.

Danny Smith

Danny Smith

Chief Lending Officer

Danny Smith serves as the Chief of Lending officer for Firstmark Credit Union, bringing to the role over 28 years of banking experience. A seasoned professional with a Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation from the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix, Danny has broad expertise in consumer banking, loan portfolio management, and credit risk mitigation.

Danny is passionate about volunteerism and giving back to local communities. He currently serves on the North East Educational Foundation Board and is the current chair of their annual golf tournament. Danny also served with distinction and honor as a member of the United State Naval Construction Battalions (Seabees), retiring after 24 years of faithful service. His loyalty and compassionate qualities make him a seamless fit for the credit union.

Outside of Firstmark, Danny loves to spend time with his family, which includes his wife and five children. When not making memories with them, you can find him on one of the many beautiful golf courses across the San Antonio area.

Robin-Tooms-portrait

Robin Tooms

Chief Marketing Officer

Robin Tooms brings over 20 years of leadership experience to Firstmark, most recently with Members Choice Credit Union ($767M, Houston, TX), where she served as senior vice president and chief marketing officer since March 2019. Providing in-depth brand insight through initiatives that present new, sustainable revenue streams, measurable results, and a strong relationship with communities the credit union champions, her expertise and commitment to people helping people fits seamlessly with Firstmark.

Over the course of her career, Tooms has held a variety of marketing positions, showcasing innovative blueprints, a deep understanding of business-to-business plans, and implementing ever-evolving digital campaigns. Prior to her last role, she served as principal and senior leader for an advertising agency, Savage Brands, overseeing brand and marketing strategies for Fortune 500 and mid-sized organizations. Outside of work, Tooms serves as a National Board Chair for the American Marketing Association, and she also gives her time to volunteer at local nonprofits.

Laura Ward

Laura Ward

Chief Risk Officer

Laura Ward serves as the Chief Risk Officer for Firstmark Credit Union, bringing to the role over 33 years of experience in the audit and financial industry. Dedicated to safeguarding both the organization and its members through innovative risk management and internal controls, Laura’s expertise and knowledge make her a welcome addition to the credit union.

Known for her strong collaboration and strategic blueprinting, Laura is committed to implementing advanced security measures that serve as the ultimate protection for the company. Her passion for preservation also extends into our overall environment, where she actively promotes sustainable practices, including Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Laura teaches nationally, for over 20 years now, for the Institute of Internal Auditors (the IIA) in the voluntary leadership program, and is frequently a speaker for conferences (i.e., AICPA, the IIA All Stars, Credit Union Leagues) and universities.

Outside of her professional career, Laura cherishes spending time with her friends and family, whether it’s walking her dog in the park, enjoying a nice dinner, or having heartfelt conversations. She enjoys singing and writing music. One of Laura’s favorite quotes is attributed to artist Vincent Van Gogh saying, “The best way to know life is to love many things.”

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