Day Air names its next CEO.
John Theobald will succeed longtime chief executive Bill Burke on Jan. 1, 2027, as the Ohio credit union seeks continuity after a period of earnings growth.
Day Air Credit Union has named its current president, John Theobald, as its next president and chief executive, putting a longtime executive in line to lead the $909 million-asset institution when Bill Burke steps down at the end of the year.
Theobald will take over on Jan. 1, 2027, following a succession-planning process led by the credit union’s board of directors. Day Air, based in Kettering, Ohio, has 54,544 members and serves communities throughout the Miami Valley.
“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. He cited Theobald’s understanding of the credit union’s members, employees and communities, as well as his commitment to their financial well-being.
Theobald has helped guide Day Air’s strategy and growth as president. He brings nearly two decades of financial-services experience, according to the credit union, and will be responsible for continuing its focus on personalized service, local decision-making and modern financial products.
The board described the appointment as the result of a deliberate effort to preserve continuity while preparing the institution for members’ changing needs.
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“The board conducted a thorough and disciplined process to identify the leader best positioned to guide Day Air forward,” said Brian Hayes, chairman of the board. “John’s proven leadership, institutional knowledge and commitment to Day Air’s mission made him the clear choice.”
Day Air reported $7.8 million in earnings during the first six months of 2026, up from nearly $7 million in the same period a year earlier, according to NCUA call report data. The credit union has framed the leadership transition as a way to build on that performance while maintaining its existing operations and services.
“I am deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and excited for the opportunity to lead Day Air into the future,” Theobald said. He said he would work with employees, the board and community partners to strengthen the member experience and create opportunities for the communities the credit union serves.
Burke will work with Theobald and the leadership team through the transition. Day Air said members should not expect disruptions to its products, services or day-to-day operations.
“John’s proven leadership, institutional knowledge and commitment to Day Air’s mission made him the clear choice.”
Brian Hayes
Chairman
Day Air Credit Union
Ken McCarthy is manager of marketing communications at Tyfone, where he monitors the credit union industry and contributes to conversations shaping its future. He previously covered credit unions and community banking for American Banker and S&P Global Market Intelligence. He holds a journalism degree from Point Park University and has more than 15 years of experience covering financial services. He is also the author of three literary fiction novels.
