Julie Mallinson Appointed Chief Executive of Celtic Credit Union

Friday 15 August 2025

Celtic Credit Union has announced the appointment of Julie Mallinson as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the departure of long-serving CEO Steve Mallinson.

Steve Mallinson joined Neath Port Talbot Credit Union as General Manager in 2011 and was appointed Chief Executive in 2015. Over the past decade, he has overseen a period of exceptional growth and transformation for the organisation—including its rebrand in 2017 to Celtic Credit Union, signalling its ambition to serve communities right across Wales.

Under Steve’s leadership, the credit union grew to serve over 10,000 members, with branches, community savings points and a new Mobile Branch now available to customers. He played a pivotal role in the credit union’s development into a strong, resilient organisation, supported by a committed team and robust operational infrastructure.

Julie joined Celtic Credit Union in 2013 as Business Development Manager following a long career in the financial and further education sectors.  Her experience has helped to establish and develop business relationships with large, medium and small companies in the public, private and third sectors.  She regularly participates in government initiatives to address financial exclusion and high-interest debt.  She has been instrumental in developing and delivering schemes to promote financial awareness in young people and is keenly aware of the many and varied issues that face families and individuals in communities across South Wales, not only financial exclusion, but also crime and anti-social behaviour.

Julie has also served as a Magistrate on the West Glamorgan Bench for over 23 years and is the Vice Chair of Governors at a local secondary school.

Speaking on her appointment, new CEO Julie Mallinson said: “I want to thank Steve for his incredible contribution to Celtic Credit Union. His leadership has been truly transformative, positioning us as a modern, trusted and growing financial co-operative for communities across Wales.

“I’m honoured to take on this role and lead Celtic Credit Union into its next chapter. We are committed to continuing our mission to offer fair, accessible and ethical financial services to even more people in the years to come.”

Celtic Credit Union was originally established in 2005 as Neath Port Talbot Credit Union and merged with Afan Savers Credit Union in 2008. It has since built an experienced and well-organised team, dedicated to delivering high-quality service and financial inclusion across the region.