Launi Skinner

Launi Skinner (born 1964) is a Canadian business woman, with 20 years of experience leading several high-profile companies within Canada and internationally, including Starbucks US, 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, and First West Credit Union. Skinner is currently chief executive officer of First West Credit Union, a Canadian credit union.

Skinner joined First West Credit Union in 2010, four months after the January 1, 2010, merger of Valley First Credit Union and Envision Credit Union.^[1] The same year, Skinner established First West Capital, a wholly owned subsidiary that provides subordinated debt and mezzanine finance services to small and medium-sized businesses in British Columbia. Under Skinner's leadership in 2013, First West Credit Union successfully acquired Enderby & District Credit Union.

Career

Before joining First West Credit Union, Skinner served as chief operating officer of 1-800 GOT JUNK? and as president of Starbucks US. During her first year at First West, Skinner grew the credit union's net interest income by 37.3% to $129.0 million. Under her leadership in 2013, total assets increased 4.1%, or $243 million to $6.1 billion.^[2]

Professional recognition

Skinner is a four-time recipient of the Women's Executive Network's (WXN) Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award, having received the accolade in 2010,^[3] 2011,^[4] 2012,^[5] and 2014,^[6] earning her entrance into WXN's Hall of Fame. She was also recognized by Business in Vancouver as one of the Most Influential Women in Business in 2011.^[7] In 2007, Skinner was included as one of the “Four Women to Watch” in Fortune Magazine’s 50 Most Power Women feature.^[8] Internationally, Skinner received the 2011 Stevie Awards for Best Canadian Executive.^[9]

Skinner has contributed to a number of boards and community organizations. She is a strong advocate for women in business and is deeply involved in the community. She served as past-chair for the Metro Vancouver YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in 2010 and 2011. She is also a community leader for the Minerva Foundation for BC Women. Additionally, Skinner is a board member for Qtrade Financial Group,^[10] Rocky Mountaineer,^[11] and Science World at Telus World of Science.^[12] She is a former member of the board of governors for Kwantlen Polytechnic University ^[13]

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