Credit Union Central of Canada announced Friday the appointment of David Phillips as president and CEO.

“David’s in-depth knowledge of financial sector policy issues and experience in the credit union system represents the kind of solid leadership our board is seeking at this crucial time in the financial services industry,” said Michael Tarr, chairman of the board of directors.

Phillips is an experienced executive with a solid background spanning more than 25 years in the financial services industry, primarily in a senior legal capacity. He was Canadian Central’s vp, general counsel and corporate secretary from 2002 to 2006. Previously he served in executive management roles with the Canadian Bankers Association and Mondex Canada Association.

Phillips is a member of the boards of directors of the Canadian Payments Association, Interac Association and Concentra Financial.

He holds an LLB and an LLM from Osgoode Hall Law School and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University. He is a member of the Ontario Bar.

Phillips assumed his duties as president and CEO of Credit Union Central of Canada on Dec. 1, 2006. He has held the position on an interim basis since January 2006.