Tampa credit union GTE Financial plans pair of locations in Jacksonville (Courtesy of the Jacksonville Business Journal) — GTE Financial, already one of Tampa’s largest locally owned owned and operated financial institutions, this week announced plans to enter the Jacksonville market.
The Tampa-based credit union has selected two Southside-area sites for incoming community financial centers, near Gate Parkway and Beach Boulevard.
“Jacksonville represents an exciting opportunity for us to extend our mission and serve more communities with a personalized, community-focused banking experience,” GTE President and CEO Brian Best said in a statement. “As we grow, our focus remains the same, empowering our members with the financial tools, guidance and support they need to achieve their goals and build stronger financial futures.”
The financial institution will open its first Jacksonville branch later this year, followed by a second in 2027. GTE operates 24 community financial centers across Florida, serves more than 230,000 individuals and businesses and manages approximately $3 billion in assets.
Its expansion is part of a broader Florida growth strategy to serve more regions. The company has also begun recruiting local talent to staff the incoming locations, it said in an announcement, including personal bankers and relationship officers.
“The expansion into Jacksonville is part of GTE Financial’s long-term commitment to meaningful growth,” said Channing Thornton, managing director of retail member sales at GTE. “We are enthusiastic to establish a presence in this dynamic market, build strong relationships and deliver the high-quality service our member-owners expect.”
The credit union was among Tampa’s fastest-growing credit unions last year — ranking No. 6 with $67.42 million more year-over-year deposits, according to data obtained from the National Credit Union Administration.
Photo courtesy of GTE Financial