KETTERING, Ohio–Day Air Credit Union has named current President John D. Theobald as its next president and CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2027, succeeding longtime CEO Bill Burke.
The appointment follows a comprehensive succession-planning process led by the credit union’s board of directors, according to the $908-million Day Air, which said the process was intended to ensure leadership continuity, protect members’ long-term interests and position the organization for continued growth.
Theobald, who currently serves as president, has played a key role in Day Air’s strategic direction, organizational growth and efforts to improve members’ financial well-being, the credit union said.
With nearly two decades of financial services experience, Theobald has been part of the leadership team overseeing the credit union’s expansion throughout Ohio’s Miami Valley region.
Burke Praises Successor
“John has been an essential part of Day Air’s success and has demonstrated that he is exceptionally prepared to lead this organization into its next chapter,” Burke said in a statement.
“He understands our members, our associates and the communities we serve, and he shares our unwavering commitment to helping people achieve greater financial well-being,” Burke continued. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that, under John’s leadership, Day Air will continue building upon that success and creating an even stronger future.”
Board Cites Succession Planning
Board Chairman Brian Hayes said the selection followed a deliberate process focused on identifying a leader with the experience and vision necessary to preserve the credit union’s strengths while responding to members’ changing needs.
“This decision reflects a carefully developed and intentionally executed succession plan centered on the long-term well-being of Day Air’s members,” Hayes said in a statement. “The board conducted a thorough and disciplined process to identify the leader best positioned to guide Day Air forward.”
Hayes said Theobald’s leadership experience, institutional knowledge and commitment to the credit union’s mission made him the board’s choice.
Theobald Outlines Priorities
“I am deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and excited for the opportunity to lead Day Air into the future,” Theobald said in a statement. “Day Air has an extraordinary team, a strong culture and a meaningful mission centered on improving the financial well-being of our members,” he added. “Bill’s leadership has positioned the credit union for continued success, and I look forward to working alongside our associates, Board and community partners to build upon that legacy, strengthen the member experience and create new opportunities for the people and communities we serve.”
Transition Underway
Day Air said Burke is working with Theobald, the board and the credit union’s leadership team to prepare for the transition.
The credit union said it does not anticipate any disruption to operations, products or services as a result of the leadership change.
Day Air said Theobald’s priorities will include maintaining organizational performance, strengthening the member experience and supporting the credit union’s continued growth in the communities it serves.
