Washington Federal, Inc. announced that effective April 1, 2017, CEO Roy M. Whitehead will move into a new role as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Washington Federal. Brent Beardall, currently President & Chief Banking Officer, will succeed Whitehead and carry the title President and CEO, becoming the sixth CEO in the 100 year history of Washington Federal. With the transition, Beardall will join the company's Board of Directors.