Karin DeVries and Kathy Ireland support Purdue Federal Credit Union business members with decades of financial expertise

Purdue Federal Credit Union is proud to spotlight two senior account vice presidents (VPs), Karin DeVries and Kathy Ireland. With decades of combined financial experience, the pair is leading the credit union’s commercial expansion through Northwest Indiana to provide a member-centric approach to banking for local entrepreneurs and nonprofits.

“Being a member-owned financial institution allows us to focus on members and community impact,” DeVries said. “We are able to provide better financial access for everyday people through local decision-making, flexible financing options and streamlined processes.”

DeVries and Ireland have built extensive careers within the financial services landscape. DeVries started as a part-time teller and rose through branch management and investment roles over 33 years. Ireland has spent more than two decades of her 37-year career specifically in commercial lending. Although the duo hails from New Hampshire and Wisconsin, respectively, both Purdue Federal Senior Account VPs have called Indiana home for years and now leverage their deep regional expertise to support local business growth.

“Historically, Northwest Indiana is really focused on manufacturing and industrial work,” Ireland said. “However, there is a lot of growth these days in healthcare, other service areas, distribution and transportation. We are in a unique situation where we have access to port, highway and rail. It gives us a lot of opportunities to see Northwest Indiana as a hub.”

DeVries and Ireland aim to help local entrepreneurs use emerging technologies and the shifting economic landscape to their advantage. Ireland prioritizes artificial intelligence across Northwest Indiana industries to maintain a competitive edge, while DeVries targets businesses migrating from the Chicago market. With new infrastructure investments coming, they partner with companies to navigate tech shifts and expansions.

“It is an exciting time to be living in Northwest Indiana,” DeVries said. “We are experiencing a period of transformation. It is becoming increasingly attractive for businesses to move here. Looking ahead, I see a lot of opportunity in supporting small- and mid-sized businesses as they grow, especially with ongoing investment in the Region.”

The senior account VPs intend to bypass traditional banking hurdles through flexible loan structures and a simplified approval process. This shared approach encourages local decision-making and genuine care for each member’s growth. This commitment to service is rooted in a 20-year professional relationship that provides deep regional stability. Working alongside colleague Mitch Gaffigan, the group serves as a cohesive team dedicated to the success of local entrepreneurs and nonprofits.

“Behind the scenes, it is a family,” Ireland said. “We’re a nearly $2 billion organization with some 300 employees, and everybody knows and helps each other. It is a place where everybody stands up to the challenge to make things happen.”

This collaborative internal culture translates directly into how the team manages its professional portfolio. Purdue Federal provides a full suite of commercial services designed to support businesses and organizations throughout their entire growth cycle. The financial institution offers essential business tools, including cash management, merchant processing and flexible financing options.

“Anyone can go anywhere to get a loan,” DeVries said. “To be honest, there are lots of places, but I am hoping we can make it feel different here. Between the local decision-making and being attentive, responsive and giving genuine care, Purdue Federal can look at the full picture of helping a business grow and succeed.”

Outside the office, both maintain a strong connection to the outdoors. DeVries is an avid bird watcher who enjoys nature hikes and long bike rides. Ireland is also an outdoor enthusiast who frequently hikes with her three dogs and is currently studying Italian. She plans to eventually retire in the Tuscany region of Italy and intends to hike the Dolomites.

“I feel that Purdue Federal gives a fresh alternative to banks,” Ireland said. “We have all the products and services that any regular bank on the street has, yet a fresh look, a fresh taste and a lot of excitement in the area to move forward.”

DeVries and Ireland are eager to help Northwest Indiana businesses navigate their next chapter of growth. To learn more about Purdue Federal Credit Union’s commercial services or to connect with its experienced Business Services team, visit purduefed.com. Alternatively, stop by a local branch to begin a partnership built on local expertise and genuine care.