About Us

John Flynn

Founder

John Flynn is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience in credit unions, banking, and financial services. A passionate innovator, he has led, launched, or co-founded multiple companies dedicated to advancing the industry and providing real solutions.

As co-founder and CEO of Open Lending LLC and Lenders Protection LLC, John led sales, marketing, and business development, as well as key insurance partnerships. Under his leadership, Open Lending achieved national recognition, earning spots on the INC 5000 and Austin Business Journal’s Fast 50 lists, and successfully went public in 2020, growing from a $1.3 billion to a $5 billion valuation in six months.

Previously, John served as CEO of Washington Gas Light Federal Credit Union for 12 years and co-founded Objective-Advisors, Inc., an RIA firm serving credit unions and banks nationwide. He is also the co-founder of Hammocks on the Edisto, a treatment center supporting women struggling with mental health and substance abuse.

Committed to giving back, John is a longtime supporter of the PenFed Foundation and an advocate for veterans. He holds a BA in Accounting from Bloomsburg University and enjoys mentoring entrepreneurs. He and his wife, Michelle, reside on Johns Island, SC.

Thomas Heyden

Chief Revenue Officer

Thomas Heyden brings over 20 years of experience in credit unions, fintech, and sales leadership. Before joining our team, he was Chief Revenue Officer at Driven CU, forging strategic partnerships and expanding revenue opportunities. Previously, he spent 24 years at CUNA Mutual Group, holding key roles, including Vice President of Fintech Solutions Sales at TruStage, where he led efforts to integrate fintech with credit unions.



Thomas began his career at Members Credit Union in lending and sponsor relations. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Professional League Services, affiliated with the Carolinas Credit Union League.

A retired Colonel with 30 years in the U.S. Army Reserves, Thomas brings leadership and strategic vision to our team. He holds a Business Administration degree from Elon University and resides in Winston-Salem, NC.