Who We Are


black and white photo of old Kroger Bakery and baker

Proudly serving generations of Central Ohioans


Our History

KEMBA Financial Credit Union was founded in 1933 as the credit union for employees of The Kroger Bakery and stands for Kroger Employee Mutual Benefits Association.

The original branch opened inside the Kroger Bakery downtown. In 1971, the branch relocated to East Broad Street in Whitehall and moved again in 2006 to our current location in Gahanna. Today we continue to serve Kroger associates, but also employees of more than 175 additional area companies, plus anyone who lives, works, worships, or goes to school in Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Hocking, Knox, Licking, Logan, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Perry, Pickaway, Ross, or Union Counties.

Currently, we have 12 branches across Central Ohio, and growing, along with complete Digital Banking services, automated telephone banking, more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs and more than 5,500 shared branching locations nationwide.

With over $2.2 billion in assets and serving more than 133,000 members, we continually are recognized as a statewide and nationwide leader among credit unions for not only our products, services, associates, and operations, but also our sound financial position. For details, read our latest annual report.

Our Mission
We exist to enrich the financial lives of our members and associates and will do so with passion, empathy, and integrity.

At our core, we’re committed to:
  1. Serving our membership and returning financial value to the cooperative
  2. Member and consumer financial education
  3. Upholding the democratic principles KEMBA was founded on, and the Credit Union Movement
  4. Recognizing the value of diversity across our staff, volunteer Board of Directors, and entire membership
  5. Actively participating in the communities we serve with public service and financial support

Our Focus on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We believe that diversity in all forms makes us a stronger organization, one that is better able to serve both our members, associates and our Board. We are committed to actively inviting all colors, ethnicities, educational backgrounds, abilities, lifestyles and thoughts to our table. We take our role as a cooperative seriously, actively seeking to encourage financial stability within the entire community, but particularly those underrepresented with education and other resources.


A woman smiling outside.
Local Community

Community Impact of Credit Unions

Credit unions play a crucial role in fostering community growth and development, distinguishing themselves from traditional banking institutions through a strong local focus and community involvement.

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Introducing: KEMBA's Associate Director Program

The Associate Director Program provides Members with the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to the future success of our Credit Union.

Our President & CEO

From Our President & CEO

As the President and CEO of KEMBA Financial, Central Ohio’s largest Credit Union, I’m privileged to say that we put people first, whether it’s our loyal member-owners or our dedicated associates who serve them. It’s why KEMBA Financial can provide both the highest quality, personalized banking and financial services, and offer a rewarding career experience for our valued associates. In short, it’s why we are a better way to bank and the best place to work.

As a member-owner of our not-for-profit financial cooperative, you’re entitled to great rates and products that meet your unique needs. I assure you that member satisfaction is a top priority at the Credit Union, and we strive to consistently meet the needs of our member-owners. Our team is not only devoted to offering you the best rates and superior service, but also convenient, personalized financial solutions, and financial education, empowering you to take control of your financial future.

Our team is honored to serve our member-owners with respect and integrity while also supporting the Central Ohio community we call home. I personally invite you to let us show you how we can make or save you money, therefore enriching your financial life.

In closing, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by good people at KEMBA, both our loyal members and talented, dedicated associates. As a team, we are committed to continue making KEMBA Financial the best place to bank for you, our member-owners, and the best place to work for our associates.

Respectfully,

 
Mark Decello
President & Chief Executive Officer
Mark Decello

















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