COLUMBUS, Ohio— Telhio Credit Union CEO Derrick Bailey has been named to Columbus Business First’s 2026 Power 125 ranking, which recognizes the most influential business leaders shaping the trajectory of central Ohio’s economy. The annual list highlights executives who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and community commitment across the region.
Bailey joined Telhio Credit Union in 2013 and quickly established himself as a transformative leader. Under his direction, Telhio’s commercial lending division became its top-performing division within six months. He later expanded his leadership to the mortgage division before ascending to president in 2022 and ultimately to CEO the following year, guiding the credit union through a period of historic growth.
“Being recognized among Columbus’ most influential business leaders is a tremendous honor — but honestly, it is truly a reflection of the outstanding team at Telhio and the members and communities we serve every day,”said Bailey. “I am proud that our work is making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and small businesses across Ohio.”
During Bailey’s tenure, Telhio has grown to serve more than 67,000 members and manages $1.3 billion in assets, making it one of the largest credit unions in the region. His leadership has earned Telhio recognition as Ohio’s top Small Business Administration (SBA) lending credit union, as well as top rankings among both consumer and commercial mortgage lenders in the central Ohio market. Bailey also spearheaded Telhio’s certification as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), securing $2.4 million in CDFI grants to extend affordable financial services to economically underserved communities.
His influence extends beyond Telhio’s balance sheet. Bailey was recognized as one of central Ohio’s Most Influential Men by Mahogany Columbus Magazine in 2024 and has been a consistent advocate for diversity in credit union leadership, financial inclusion, and community development throughout the region.
Columbus Business First’s Power 125 is an annual ranking that identifies the region’s most influential leaders — individuals whose decisions, vision, and community involvement have the greatest impact on the direction of central Ohio’s economy. Bailey’s inclusion on the 2026 list underscores both his personal leadership and Telhio’s growing influence in the financial services sector.
