Missy Key
Missy Key has been selected as the next president and CEO of America First Credit Union.
The Riverdale-based company’s board of directors announced the change, which will be effective March 1, 2027.
Key will succeed Thayne Shaffer, who plans to retire after 38 years of service to America First’s members and employees. Key will become the credit union’s sixth president and CEO.
“I am honored and excited by this opportunity,” Key said. “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.”
Key’s 38 years of service at America First include progressive leadership roles in accounting and finance, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief financial officer. As CFO, she has played an integral role in strengthening America First’s financial position and working alongside the executive leadership team to shape and advance the credit union’s strategic direction, the company said.
“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. “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.”
“America First has tremendous momentum, and Missy will carry forward that legacy of service and success,” Shaffer said. “It has been an honor to work with her and so many other talented people at America First.”
Shaffer became the credit union’s president and CEO in 2021. During his almost six-year tenure, America First achieved record asset and membership growth, weathered a pandemic and recession, completed three mergers and acquisitions, and launched a new digital banking system.
“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.”
Founded in 1939, America First has more than $27 billion in assets and 135 branch locations across Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. Key’s appointment follows a milestone year for America First, including mergers with Meadows Bank and Greater Nevada Credit Union and growing to nearly 1.7 million members.
