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ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) is proud to announce the promotion of Mitch Speer to Director of AI & Data Science, a newly created role which underscores United’s commitment to innovation and member-focused solutions.
Mitch Speer, Director of AI & Data Science
Speer, who joined United in 2023, has been instrumental in advancing data-driven strategies and implementing AI‑powered tools that enhance member experience and improve data transparency across the organization.
In his new role, Speer will lead the development and execution of United’s AI and data science strategy, ensuring it aligns with organizational goals and member needs. He will oversee predictive modeling, machine learning solutions, and generative AI applications that support innovation and smarter decision-making.
Speer will also lead an AI council responsible for advising governance and compliance for all AI initiatives, maintaining ethical and secure practices while fostering trust. By collaborating across business units, he will integrate AI into critical functions, enhancing efficiency and delivering more intuitive experiences for United’s members.
“AI is not just a technology trend, it’s a strategic enabler for how we serve our members,” said Michael Benassi, Vice President of Enterprise Analytics at United. “Mitch’s leadership in this space positions us to deliver smarter, faster, and more personalized experiences. His expertise will help us innovate responsibly, improve operational efficiency, and maintain strong governance as we expand AI capabilities across the organization.”
Drawing on his early career as a high school math teacher, Speer brings a passion for making complex topics accessible and helping teams understand the opportunities that data science and AI can unlock. He aims to empower employees to confidently engage with new tools and data-driven decision‑making. Looking ahead, Speer and his team will focus on projects that elevate personalization and streamline operations through internal AI tools that help employees quickly gain relevant insights. Ultimately, enhancing the experience for both members and United team members.
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About United
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 190,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4.0 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania.