Credit union regulator names a director of financial technology

The National Credit Union Administration has named a leader who will be laser-focused on the role of innovation in the credit union world.

On Tuesday, the regulatory agency named Charles Vice to be director of financial technology and access. In this role, he will advise the NCUA board on agency policy related to fintech, including cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, and explore more ways to promote financial inclusion using technology and conduct examinations and supervision virtually rather than onsite.

Previously, Vice served as commissioner of the Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet's Department of Financial Institutions, where he oversaw regulation of all Kentucky state-chartered financial institutions, and as treasurer of the National Association of State Credit Union Supervisors. He also spent 18 years at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

"Charles knows his job is to ensure the NCUA isn't a technophobic agency," NCUA Vice Chairman Kyle Hauptman said in a press release. "The NCUA Board wouldn't be doing its job if we didn't embrace fintech."

Vice's appointment comes in the midst of several technology-related initiatives at the agency. Board member and former chairman Rodney Hood kickstarted a regular discussion series with fintech companies in 2022 and informally took on the responsibilities of fintech director now covered by Vice. The agency also recently voted to advance a proposed rule that would allow credit unions to participate in or purchase more member loans from fintech companies.