SUMTER — Certified public accountant Barbara Star is SAFE Federal Credit Union’s new vice president and controller, the credit union announced Wednesday, Aug. 19.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Barbara Star to SAFE’s senior leadership team,” said President and CEO Michael Baker. “Her financial expertise and leadership experience will help SAFE maintain the strong financial oversight our member owners expect.”

Star brings more than 30 years of accounting and financial leadership experience to SAFE. A CPA licensed in South Carolina and Georgia, she has served in several senior accounting leadership roles, including most recently as senior vice president controller at First Reliance Bank headquartered in Florence.

“SAFE has an outstanding reputation for serving its members and communities with integrity and excellence. I’m looking forward to working with the leadership team and employees to support the credit union’s long-term financial strategy and continued growth,” said Star.

Star holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Augusta University and is an active member of the Georgia Society of CPAs. In her new role, she will oversee the credit union’s internal accounting controls, financial reporting, budgeting and regulatory reporting.

SAFE Federal Credit Union, founded in 1955, is one of the largest financial institutions based in South Carolina with over $1.9 billion in assets, more than 141,000 members and 19 branches. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Sumter, Lee, Kershaw, Clarendon and Florence counties and parts of Richland and Lexington counties. Membership is also open to employees of more than 400 companies located throughout the Midlands and relatives of those eligible to join. Visit www.SAFEfed.org for more information.