Simone LeClear
Simone LeClear is the AVP of Marketing at 3Rivers Federal Credit Union, where she has been a driving force for over a decade. With a background in graphic design and visual communications from Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne, Simone began her career in home décor before discovering her passion for financial services. Initially hesitant about the industry, she quickly embraced the mission of 3Rivers to help people understand money matters, finding personal inspiration in the organization’s commitment to financial education and community impact.
In her current role, Simone blends her creative expertise with strategic insight, leading brand and content strategy that spans marketing, advertising, and member engagement initiatives. She has been instrumental in transforming her team’s approach from reactive project management to proactive, high-impact campaigns, developing automated workflows and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Her work has contributed to significant organizational growth, including increasing membership from 70K to 130K and expanding assets from $788M to $2.6B, while supporting multiple branch openings and the acquisition of West End Bank.
Simone’s professional philosophy centers on people and purpose. She thrives on storytelling, relationship-building, and mentoring her team, all while serving her community through volunteer work with local nonprofits, food banks, and charitable initiatives like Toys for Tots. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, painting, gaming, and spending time with her 12-week-old daughter. Recognized for her leadership and creativity, Simone is celebrated as a strategic connector who simplifies complexity and inspires those around her.
• Licensed Nail Technician
• Purdue University Fort Wayne - BFA
• Silver Advertising Honor Award - 2017,2019,2020
• YLNI Leadership Institute Graduate
• Gold Advertising Honor Award
• Best in Show
• First Place in Graphic Design Division
• Honors Recognition
• Gold Addy Award
• Community Harvest Food Bank
• Local PBS
• Toys for Tots
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of natural curiosity, a strong eagerness to learn, and consistently being fully present in every opportunity. Collaboration has also played a key role—working closely with others, exchanging ideas, and brainstorming together has been invaluable to my growth. Above all, I have been fortunate to have incredible mentors and contributors along the way who have inspired and guided me; I would not be where I am today without their support and insight.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
For young women entering my industry, visibility is as important as skill. Don’t just do great work—share it, take up space, use your voice, and advocate for a seat at the table. Collaboration amplifies impact, and letting others see your contributions allows them to support and enrich your work. If your voice isn’t valued, seek an environment that empowers you; being in the right space makes all the difference.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, one of the biggest opportunities in our field is leveraging AI in two key areas. Internally, AI can help our teams access complex information quickly—our IT team is developing a chatbot that allows staff to get instant answers on everything from auto loan rates to member account issues, streamlining support and improving service. Externally, I’m excited about the potential to use AI to help our members manage their finances more effectively. For example, AI could analyze spending patterns, suggest ways to save, or provide personalized budgeting advice, all while enhancing—not replacing—the relational, human-driven experience that defines our organization.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are curiosity, collaboration, community service, and a commitment to financial education. These guide how I approach challenges, build relationships, and contribute meaningfully to the communities I serve.