Bringing Innovation And Heart To CoastHills: Meet Chris Turnley

When CoastHills set out to find its next Chief Operating Officer, the goal was to find someone who could help us continue to improve the member experience, bring fresh ideas to how we serve and stay true to what matters most, people. Chris stood out right away.

Chris joins CoastHills after spending more than 20 years helping credit unions, financial institutions and technology companies grow, evolve and better serve the people who count on them. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for bringing people together, strengthening teams and finding new ways to improve the customer and member experience.

Most recently, Chris served as Executive Vice President at University Federal Credit Union (UFCU) in Austin, Texas, where he helped lead efforts to expand access to financial services and strengthen how members connect with their credit union.

“Chris brings an exceptional combination of operational leadership, innovation and commitment to people,” said CoastHills President and CEO James Ledford. “His experience leading teams and improving the member experience aligns closely with our mission of making a difference in our neighbors’ lives here on the Central Coast.”

Focused on People, Service and Doing Things Right
Chris has always believed that strong teams create better experiences for members, especially when people feel supported in their work.

That mindset has guided him throughout his career. He has led teams through growth and change, helped launch new ideas in financial services and focused on making it easier for people to access the tools they need to move forward financially.

In his new role, Chris will help oversee member experience, operations, digital banking, technology and marketing. His focus will be on making everyday banking simpler, more accessible and more connected for members.

A Commitment to Community
Chris also brings a deep commitment to community. Much of his work has focused on expanding financial opportunities and supporting organizations that serve people experiencing housing insecurity, disaster recovery needs and other barriers to stability.

That commitment aligns closely with CoastHills’ mission of giving back and helping strengthen communities across the Central Coast.

Life Outside of Work
Outside of work, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Erin, and their three sons, Regan, Nolan and Evan. Like many families, most days are built around staying connected and making the most of everyday moments together.

Getting to Know Chris: Q&A

What's one piece of career advice that has always stuck with you?
Building relationships and trust are the most important jobs of a leader. A leader either builds trust or erodes trust with every action they take.

What's something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I've been to 48 states and 24 Major League Baseball ballparks, but I still manage to get lost in my own neighborhood. If you see me wandering around the Central Coast, feel free to point me in the right direction.

I also served as a co-pastor of a church for four years, which is usually something people don't expect.

What's your favorite way to spend time with your family?
Traveling together is one of my favorite things. I also love Thanksgiving and Christmas because everyone slows down and we get to spend time together.

One family tradition I borrowed from my mom is making everyone's favorite dessert for Thanksgiving. Last year that meant five pies, three cakes, a tart, and a few extra requests from family and friends.

What's your go-to music or playlist when you need energy or focus?
When I'm running or working out, you'll usually find worship music in my headphones. When I'm working, it's often classical music.

For drives, I switch to podcasts. My kids joke that I'm constantly studying for a test on World War II because I listen to so many history podcasts.

What's one place you've traveled to that left a lasting impression on you?
The most impactful trip I've ever taken was my first time on an airplane. I traveled to Japan, Hong Kong, China, and Korea as part of a USA youth track team.

Before that, I had never been outside Washington or Idaho. Seeing how big the world was and experiencing the kindness of people from different cultures left a lasting impression on me.

What's a TV show, movie, podcast, or book you keep coming back to?
I've watched Band of Brothers more than a few times. For podcasts, I enjoy History That Doesn't Suck and The Table Group podcast on organizational health.

What will you miss most about Austin, TX?
I'll miss being close to family, friends, and a community I've grown to love over the years. I'll also miss breakfast tacos and great Texas BBQ.

What's something you're looking forward to experiencing on the Central Coast?
I love that hiking and being outdoors can be part of everyday life here. The people I've met have been incredibly authentic and grounded, and I've already discovered a local favorite: Old West Cinnamon Rolls. Probably a little too often.