Proudly Serving Our MSCU Membership, Corporate Partners, and Community

Hank Baum

President & CEO

As President and Chief Executive Officer, Hank leads a passionate and skilled team dedicated to enhancing the well-being of our community. 

Having built a 30-year career as a senior executive in the financial services industry, Hank brings seasoned leadership and strategic planning expertise to his current role. His primary focus is empowering MSCU’s employees and other stakeholders to better support members, corporate partners, and the community in achieving their goals.

A committed humanitarian, Hank sits on several boards and contributes to several community initiatives.

Getting to know Hank:

Community Commitment: Hank volunteers countless hours in the community. He is an appointed commissioner on the Wallingford Economic Commission, a member of the finance council at his church, and for the past several years, he has traveled to the Dominican Republic doing mission work with Haitian immigrants.
Inspired By: His life's greatest accomplishment, his two grown sons.
Fun Fact: When not working or volunteering,  you can usually find Hank doing an outdoor activity - including chasing his chickens out of the neighbor’s yard!
Coffee Order: Iced tea from Dunkin Donuts!
Current Playlist: Freddy Mercury and Queen

Jeffrey Tracey

Senior Vice President, COO

Jeff has over 15 years of experience with MSCU, where he has held various roles, giving him a diverse skill set and a broad understanding of the member experience. Currently serving as the Vice President of Lending, Jeff ensures operational efficiency, member service quality, and compliance with regulations. He manages credit portfolio risk, develops innovative loan solutions, and executes an efficient lending strategic plan. Jeff is also actively engaged in community impact through volunteer work in organizations like Valley United Way, Apostolic Worship Center, NCACI International Youth Ministry, and Greater Bridgeport NAACP.

Getting to Know Jeff:

Community Commitment: Executive Board Member - Valley United Way | Vice Chair of Governance Committee - Valley United Way | Missions Coordinator at Apostolic Worship Center - Annual Thanksgiving Community Food Drive
Inspired by: The journey of life! Jeff's inspiration comes from the people we meet, the challenges we face, the battles we lose and win, the experiences we share and the memories we make.
Fun Fact: At 14 years old, Jeff hiked Jamaica's Blue Mountains to the island's highest point (7402 ft).
Coffee Order: Depends on how well he slept! :)
Current Playlist: Elevation Worship, Maverick Music, Chronology & Masego

Charles Okyere

Chief Finance Officer

Charles Okyere, CFA, is a financial professional with over 17 years of extensive experience in financial services, covering business and financial analysis. Before joining Mutual Security Credit Union, he served as Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Treasury at Citibank, where he was recognized for his meticulous approach to capital allocation, balance sheet management, and liquidity management. Charles has also held senior management roles at EY, Old Mutual Bermuda, and Asset Management. His expertise spans strategic finance, investment portfolio analysis, and operational efficiency. Charles is known for his exceptional ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly and for his collaborative approach with senior management and organizational teams.

Charles is deeply committed to Mutual Security Credit Union's mission of individual financial empowerment and freedom. His extensive experience and unique perspective as a Chartered Financial Analyst with an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business make him a valuable asset in achieving the Credit Union's long-term goals.

Maria Lazor

Vice President, Risk & Strategy Management

Maria is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in Credit Union Management. She has a strong track record of success in various leadership roles, demonstrating expertise in risk management, compliance, operations, vendor management, and project management.  Maria's expertise lies in her technical acumen and her ability to inspire and lead teams. She's a collaborator, strategist, and visionary who can balance risk with innovation, ensuring organizational success. Maria's commitment to operational efficiency, compliance, and risk mitigation has made her a respected figure in the credit union sector.

Kimberly Rapela

Vice President of Human Resources

Kim joined MSCU in 2017, bringing a well-rounded business background and a passion for people to her role as Vice President of Human Resources. Having started her career in finance before transitioning to HR, Kim offers a thoughtful and balanced approach to her work — understanding both the needs of the business and the importance of creating a positive employee experience.

Her ability to balance people-first leadership with operational excellence has made her a valued member of MSCU’s leadership team. Kim holds a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification and earned her MBA, providing her with the tools to align HR strategy with MSCU’s business objectives.  She is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive workplace culture where employees can thrive.

Getting to know Kim:

Community Commitment: Kim has a lifelong passion for animals and is a proud supporter of local animal shelters and rescue organizations.
Inspired by: Kim credits her early finance career with shaping her problem-solving skills and her belief that “people are any organization’s greatest investment.”
Fun Fact: Kim loves to travel—especially when there’s an ocean involved. Whether relaxing by the water or exploring new coastal destinations, the beach is her happy place.
Current Playlist: With a love for music that tells a story, Kim gravitates toward alternative and folk rock — anything with heart, soul, and a little edge.