Bay Federal Credit Union Names Leadership for New Marina Branch

Capitola, CA – July 17, 2025 - Bay Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the leadership team for its new branch opening in Marina, California. Longtime team member Denise Gomez has been appointed Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager, and Lily Garcia-Johnson will serve as Assistant Branch Manager. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional service to the Marina community.

Denise Gomez has been with Bay Federal for over eight years, most recently serving as the Service Manager at the Credit Union’s Capitola branch. She is known for her dedication to member service and team development.

Over the years, she has steadily advanced through various member service and leadership roles and is an active member of Bay Federal’s internal Community Support Committee. Earlier this year, she represented the Credit Union at Crash the GAC, a national program that empowers emerging credit union leaders at the Credit Union National Association’s Governmental Affairs Conference.

In this new role, she will lead the overall success of the branch, bringing together strong leadership, exceptional service, and high performance. Denise is committed to ensuring that every member enjoys a smooth and welcoming experience from the moment they walk through the door.

“Denise embodies what Bay Federal is all about—growth, service, and a deep connection to the community,” said Carrie Birkhofer, Bay Federal Credit Union President and CEO. “We’re proud she will be leading our newest branch in Marina, and we know she and Lily will be a fantastic team for our members.”

Lily Garcia-Johnson brings over five years of financial services experience and a passion for helping members take charge of their financial well-being. Formerly the Lead Financial Service Officer at the Credit Union’s Watsonville branch, she will support Denise in managing daily operations and delivering efficient, member-focused service.

The new Marina branch will offer a full range of financial services, including personal and business banking, loans, and financial education resources. For more information about Bay Federal Credit Union’s new Marina branch, please visit bayfed.com/marina. Grand opening details will be announced soon.

About Bay Federal Credit Union
Bay Federal Credit Union is a full-service, not-for-profit financial institution that serves over 94,000 members and 2,700 local businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties. With more than $1.7 billion in assets, Bay Federal is the largest member-owned financial institution in the region. The organization has been proudly serving its members and the community since 1957. Bay Federal is a certified Community Development Financial Institution, with a primary mission of promoting community development alongside their financial activities. Bay Federal has an award-winning employee volunteer program in which employees have given their own money and volunteer for numerous local schools, nonprofit organizations, and community events each year.

Contact: Mark Ely, SVP, Chief Marketing Officer
Bay Federal Credit Union
831.477.8608
mely@bayfed.com