Seth Schaefer

Seth Schaefer

Consultant

Seth Schaefer is a Consultant at Curtis Strategy, where he brings extensive leadership experience in the credit union sector to help mission-driven organizations navigate strategic growth, governance, and structural transformation. A former President and CEO of Rivermark Community Credit Union, Seth is dedicated to enhancing organizational impact through purpose-driven strategic planning, thoughtful member-focused programming, and disciplined execution.

Known for his collaborative and listening-first approach, Seth partners with boards and executive teams to turn conceptual ideas into practical, high-impact strategies. He excels at identifying internal advocates, evaluating future goals against existing capabilities, and guiding complex organizational changes with positivity and clear communication.

Executive Leadership Experience & Strategic Impact

Before joining Curtis Strategy, Seth served as President and CEO of Rivermark Community Credit Union, where he led a purpose-driven organization focused on member financial well-being. Under his leadership, the organization executed a strategic plan that resulted in significant growth, including doubling asset size and achieving multiple recognitions as a Forbes Best-in-State Credit Union. His work centered on expanding service areas through strategic mergers and fostering financial resilience through targeted programming.

Areas of Expertise

Seth leverages his deep administrative and leadership background to support clients in the following areas:

  • Strategic Planning Facilitation: Bridging the gap between vision and reality through tailored strategies.
  • Mergers and Acquisitions: Guiding organizations through complex partnerships, including managing multi-billion dollar integrations.
  • Board Governance Development: Strengthening board-management alignment and clarifying governance roles.
  • Data Analytics: Utilizing data-driven insights to inform decision-making and performance.
  • Credit Union & CUSO Administration: Providing specialized operational and administrative expertise for credit unions and Credit Union Service Organizations.
  • Charitable Foundation Administration: Establishing and growing foundation programs to increase community impact.

Sectors

  • Credit Unions

Education & Professional Engagement

  • BA, International Relations – Willamette University
  • Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC)
  • Noted Expert: United Way ALICE methodology
  • Leadership Background:
    • Led a Certified Development Financial Institution (CDFI)
    • Led a Low-Income Designated Financial Institution (LIDI)
    • Credit Union Legislative Advocacy Leadership

Personal & Community Involvement

Seth is committed to the nonprofit sector and frequently lends his expertise to community and industry-focused boards, including:

  • OHSU/Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Foundation Board member
  • Past Credit Union for Kids National Advisory Board member
  • Past Credit Union Governmental Affairs State Chair

What is Seth Schaefer known for?

Seth Schaefer is a Curtis Strategy consultant recognized for his collaborative, listening-first approach to guiding mission-driven organizations through strategic growth, governance, and structural transformation. A former President and CEO of Rivermark Community Credit Union, Seth specializes in turning conceptual ideas into practical, high-impact strategies by identifying internal advocates and aligning future goals with organizational capabilities. He is an expert in credit union leadership, mergers and acquisitions, board governance, and data-driven decision-making, known for leading complex organizational changes with positivity, clear communication, and a dedication to disciplined, purpose-driven execution.

How can I engage Seth for consulting support?

To engage Seth Schaefer for consulting support, please complete the contact form to initiate a conversation about your organization’s strategic needs.

What Clients Are Saying