Our Story

Not named after a founder. Named for who we serve.

Zeal isn’t just our name. It’s what we believe every organization deserves. As a catalyst for transformation, we help credit unions uncover the belonging, purpose, and growth that ignite lasting impact.

Why We Exist

The Zeal Equation

We believe exceptional leadership is measured not only by the results a leader achieves, but by the potential they unlock in others. Organizations thrive when leaders create cultures where people belong, where purpose is clear, and where growth is continuously encouraged. When people experience all three together, they become more engaged, more innovative, and more committed to the success of those around them.

That’s the power of the Zeal Equation

More than a framework, it is the philosophy that guides every partnership we build. Whether we’re identifying transformational executives, developing leaders, strengthening boards, or helping organizations navigate change, we believe lasting organizational impact begins by creating the conditions where belonging, purpose, and growth reinforce one another.

Creating the conditions where leaders, teams,
and organizations thrive.

Belonging
Creating environments where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to contribute.

Purpose
Connecting people to meaningful work and a shared vision that inspires action.

Growth
Empowering leaders, teams, and organizations to continuously learn, evolve, and achieve what’s possible.

Our Foundation

Built From the Inside.

Before Zealyst, our careers began inside credit unions.

We grew within the credit union movement, gaining the perspective that only comes from living the work. It’s why our partnerships begin with understanding, not assumptions.

You won’t have to explain what makes credit unions different. We’ve lived it.

A deeply personal partnership

You'll work directly with experienced practitioners who take the time to understand your organization, culture, and leadership needs.

Clear communication at every stage

You'll know where the search stands, what's happening next, and what we're learning along the way.

Insight beyond the resume

We look beyond credentials to understand leadership style, values, cultural alignment, and potential for lasting impact.

Support beyond the placement

Our partnership doesn't end with an accepted offer. We help support a successful transition and strong start.

What We Stand For

More Than a Client.
A Partner.

We don’t believe the best work happens across the table. We believe it happens on the same side of it.

We celebrate your wins as if they’re our own. We ask the hard questions, have honest conversations, and stay present through every challenge and every breakthrough. 

Partnership isn’t measured by a project. It’s measured by how we show up when it matters most.

We Earn Your Trust

We challenge with respect, follow through on our commitments, and stay engaged every step of the way.

We Walk Alongside

From the first conversation to what's next, we're with you. We don't hand over the work and walk away because the strongest partnerships continue well beyond the engagement.

We Move Forward Together

Progress isn't handed to organizations. It's built together through conversations, decisions, and breakthroughs that move people, leaders, and organizations forward.

Real Partnership

You work directly with experienced practitioners who are as invested in your outcomes as you are. No hand-offs. No junior teams. Just real partnership.

The People Behind the Work

We bring that same zeal to everything we do.

Our team is made up of people who genuinely believe in the power of passion and purpose at work. You won’t find us going through the motions — we’re Zealysts, too.

Jill Nowacki

Co-Founder & President/CEO
A catalyst for credit union leaders for over two decades. Passionate about igniting the potential in people and organizations.

Tracie Kenyon

Co-Founder & Executive Development Partner
Brings deep expertise in executive development and organizational transformation to every engagement.

Ciara LaVelle

Vice President, Strategic Growth
Drives strategic growth initiatives and ensures Zealyst's impact continues to expand across the credit union space.

Carl Clark

Talent Experience Manager
Ensures every talent engagement is exceptional — from first contact through onboarding and beyond.

Katy Zaleski

Leadership & Organizational Development Consultant
Specializes in helping teams and leaders unlock their highest-performing potential through purposeful development.

Carolyn Reeves

Leadership & Organizational Development Consultant
Passionate about culture transformation and the behavioral change that drives lasting organizational results.

Mayuri Samala

Marketing Manager
Brings the Zealyst brand to life — connecting our story with the leaders who need to hear it most.

Let's uncover what's possible.

An exchange with Zealyst will leave you feeling inspired, uplifted, and motivated for what you can accomplish. Let’s start that conversation.