Retiring Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union CEO Mark S. Cochran holds his Credit Union Heroes award, previously presented by Banker & Tradesman, in this 2017 photo. Banker & Tradesman photo / file

Lowell-based Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union announced the retirement of its president and CEO Mark S. Cochran.

Under his 17 years at the helm, Cochran doubled the credit union’s membership to 100,000, increased staffing by 48 percent and grew assets from $600 million to $2.1 billion.

He also doubled Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union’s branches to eight, adding branches in Dracut, Westford and Methuen as well as in Nashua, New Hampshire, and renovated its four other branches. He was named CEO of the Year in 2022 by the Cooperative Credit Union Association, the trade group for credit unions across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Delaware and New Hampshire.

Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union said in its announcement of Cochran’s retirement that its board is on a nationwide search for the bank’s next CEO with the help of DDJ Myers, an executive search and leadership development firm. The process will include both internal and external candidates.

“Mark embodies Jeanne D’Arc’s core values in all he does,” Naomi Prendergast, Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union’s board chair, said in a statement. “Mark is not only a respected leader, business partner, and colleague to countless individuals and organizations, but a true friend. The board is beyond grateful for Mark’s leadership and vision over the years.”

“Serving as Jeanne D’Arc’s CEO has been an honor and a privilege,” Cochran said in a statement. “Thanks to the strength of our team and board, I’m confident this will be a smooth and seamless transition. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next as the credit union continues to help our members make smart financial choices.”