Golden 1 Credit Union Recognized for Leadership and Workplace Excellence
Golden 1 Credit Union, one of the largest credit unions in the United States, has announced it received three prestigious designations recognizing its leadership and workplace excellence. President and CEO Donna Bland was named to the Sacramento Business Journal's Power 100 list for the third consecutive year, while the organization earned the Great Place To Work® Certification™ for 2026 and was again named one of America's Best Employers for Company Culture by Forbes.
Together, the honors spotlight a workplace where employees are supported to grow and thrive, along with the leadership driving the credit union's sustained growth and community impact throughout California.
"These recognitions reflect the incredible dedication of our employees and their commitment to improving the financial well-being of our members and communities."
— Donna Bland, President & CEO, Golden 1 Credit UnionLeadership Recognized on the Power 100
Bland's third consecutive appearance on the Sacramento Business Journal's Power 100 list — which honors the most influential leaders in the region's economy and business community — reflects the leadership behind Golden 1's continued growth. Under her direction, the credit union has grown to serve more than 1.2 million members, manage over $22 billion in assets, and employ over 2,000 individuals across California, positioning it as one of the largest credit unions in the state and the nation.
That same purpose-driven leadership extends throughout the organization, helping foster a culture that continues to earn national recognition.
"At Golden 1, we believe that when our employees thrive, our members thrive. That's why we're committed to creating a workplace where employees feel supported, empowered and inspired to grow."
— Heather Andrade-Neumann, EVP & Chief People Officer, Golden 1 Credit UnionA Culture Built on Employee Well-Being
In 2026, Golden 1 earned its fourth consecutive Great Place To Work® Certification™ and once again appeared on Forbes' America's Best Employers for Company Culture. The awards reflect investments in employee growth through leadership development and career advancement, an inclusive workplace where engaged employees can better serve members, and community and financial wellness initiatives that extend the organization's mission.
The Forbes recognition was based on an independent survey of over 217,000 U.S.-based employees at companies with at least 1,000 people. Of the 39 organizations honored in the Banking and Financial Services category, Golden 1 was one of only two credit unions included. The credit union also earned an 83% employee satisfaction score in the Great Place To Work® survey — 26 points above the U.S. average.
Triple recognition. Golden 1 earned three designations at once — Power 100 leadership, Great Place To Work® Certification, and Forbes' Best Employers for Company Culture.
Sustained leadership. CEO Donna Bland was named to the Sacramento Business Journal Power 100 for the third consecutive year.
Consistent culture. The fourth straight Great Place To Work® Certification signals a durable, employee-centered workplace rather than a one-off win.
Standout satisfaction. An 83% employee satisfaction score landed 26 points above the U.S. average, and Golden 1 was one of only two credit unions on the Forbes banking list.
Scale meets purpose. With 1.2 million members, $22 billion in assets, and 2,000+ employees, Golden 1 pairs national scale with a purpose-driven mission.