Teresa Freeborn

A Dynamic Leader, Trusted Advisor, and Catalyst for Change

Award Winning Leadership

Teresa Freeborn is the winner of a Herb Wegner Memorial Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement

With a four decade career in finance in both Canada and the US, Teresa Freeborn has spent the last 16 years as CEO of a large financial services institution. She has received countless awards and honors for both her achievements within her industry and her contributions to the advancement of women in leadership. She is currently the chair of the board of Smash+Tess, a fast-growing and successful fashion brand she co-founded with her daughter Ashely in 2016. She is an outspoken champion of the advancement of women, and a sought-after speaker and media spokesperson, known for delivering her message with warmth, passion, and brutal honesty.

#GameOn

After decades of shamefully slow progress in the advancement of women, it’s game on.

Defining Moments & Achievements

Former President of Kinecta Federal Credit Union, overseeing $6.7 billion in assets and 270,000 members.
Led the merger of Kinecta with Xceed Financial Credit Union, where she served as President & CEO from 2006.
Past Chair of WOCCU’s Global Women’s Leadership Network.
Served on the Board of Directors for the Credit Union National Association (CUNA).
Chaired CU Awareness LLC, a program promoting credit unions to consumers.
Held leadership roles with the Filene Research Institute, California Credit Union League, and Credit Union Executives Society (CUES).

Dedicated advocate for women in leadership, focusing on diversity, inclusion, and corporate equality.

Chaired the Credit Union for Kids Advisory Board – Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Actively involved in the annual Auction Committee benefiting children’s healthcare.

Trustee of the Western CUNA Management School.

Served on the Board of the Richard Myles Johnson Foundation, promoting financial education for youth.

Reasons to Book Teresa

Confidence

Teresa brings decades of leadership experience, from running billion-dollar credit unions to advocating for women in corporate spaces. She speaks with authority, sharing real-world insights that empower audiences to take action.

Energy

A dynamic and engaging speaker, Teresa captivates audiences with her passion for leadership, gender equality, and business innovation. Her enthusiasm is contagious, leaving attendees inspired and motivated.

Candor

Teresa doesn’t shy away from hard truths. She delivers bold, thought-provoking insights on workplace equality, leadership challenges, and industry transformation—always with authenticity and clarity. And she has the stats to back it all up.

Humor

Serious topics don’t have to feel heavy. Teresa’s natural wit and storytelling ability make complex issues accessible, ensuring audiences are both informed and entertained.