RIVERDALE, Utah — The $26-billion America First Credit Union has named longtime executive Missy Key as its next president and CEO, effective March 1, 2027, succeeding Thayne Shaffer, who plans to retire after 38 years with the credit union.
Key, currently executive vice president and chief financial officer, will become the sixth president and CEO in America First’s history, according to the credit union.
The appointment comes during a period of significant expansion for America First, including mergers with Meadows Bank and Greater Nevada Credit Union and membership growth to nearly 1.7 million.
“Missy is a strong, insightful and decisive executive who leads with vision and compassion,” said Linda Carver, chair of America First’s board of directors, in a statement. “Her 38 years of service at America First have prepared her well for this moment, and our members, employees and community partners are in good hands.”
Nearly Four Decades of Experience
According to America First, Key has spent 38 years with the credit union, holding progressively senior leadership positions in accounting and finance.
As CFO, she has played a central role in strengthening the credit union’s financial position and helping develop and implement its strategic direction.
“I am honored and excited by this opportunity,” Key said in a statement. “I am grateful to have worked with Thayne for many years and appreciate the exemplary leadership he provided. I look forward to working with our Board and talented teams to continue building on our foundational values of serving members and strengthening the communities we serve.”
Shaffer’s Tenure Included Significant Growth
Shaffer became president and CEO in 2021. During his nearly six years leading the organization, America First experienced record asset and membership growth, completed three mergers and acquisitions, and introduced a new digital banking system, according to the credit union.
His tenure also included navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and a recession.
“America First has tremendous momentum, and Missy will carry forward that legacy of service and success,” Shaffer said in a statement. “It has been an honor to work with her and so many other talented people at America First.”
Carver credited Shaffer with guiding the credit union through a period of expansion and change while maintaining its focus on members.
“Thayne’s achievements as CEO speak for themselves, but his impact extends far beyond numbers,” Carver said. “He has led with humility, transparency and an unwavering member-first focus. We are grateful for his remarkable service and wish him all the best in retirement.”
America First said Key’s selection is intended to provide leadership continuity as the credit union integrates its recent mergers and continues expanding its operations and membership.
The credit union has 1.58-million members.
