Jeff Thieman to Become CAMPUS USA Credit Union CEO
The executive will replace retiring president Jerry Benton at the Florida-based credit union in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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CAMPUS USA Credit Union has announced that Jeff Thieman will succeed retiring President and Chief Executive Officer Jerry Benton effective in 2027. This leadership transition follows a selection process by the organization's volunteer Board of Directors.
Why it matters
The change in leadership comes as the financial institution manages a network spanning 25 Florida counties. This transition is intended to provide continuity for the credit union and its 180,000 members as it enters a new executive chapter.
The credit union manages assets exceeding $4 billion and currently serves more than 180,000 members. It maintains operations across 25 Florida counties.
The players
Jerry Benton
He is the outgoing President and Chief Executive Officer of CAMPUS USA Credit Union who is retiring after 27 years of service.
Jeff Thieman
He is the incoming President and Chief Executive Officer who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of the credit union since 2014.
CAMPUS USA Credit Union
It is a Florida-based financial institution that holds more than $4 billion in assets and operates across 25 counties.
The details
Jeff Thieman, who has served as the credit union's Chief Operating Officer since 2014, will work closely with the retiring leader to ensure a smooth handoff. Jerry Benton will step down after a 27-year career with the organization.
Timeline
Jeff Thieman began serving as Chief Operating Officer in 2014.
Jerry Benton will retire as CEO at the end of 2026.
Jeff Thieman begins his tenure as President and CEO in 2027.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition aligns with the 2023 National Credit Union Administration strategic leadership transition guidelines regarding executive succession. The shift positions the institution to maintain its competitive stance among regional credit unions in Florida.
Members should anticipate no immediate changes to their daily banking services or account access during the upcoming leadership transition. The credit union will continue to operate across its existing Florida branches as the new CEO takes office in 2027.
The takeaway
The multi-year transition process highlights the importance of institutional stability during major executive changes. Customers and members generally benefit from such planned handovers, which prioritize organizational continuity over abrupt shifts in strategy.
What happens next
Jerry Benton will officially retire on December 31, 2026, marking the end of his 27-year tenure.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership trends, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wcjb.
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