Jim Nussle to retire at the end of October
America’s Credit Unions has named Scott Simpson as its next President and CEO effective Nov. 3, 2025.
With more than two decades of in credit union advocacy, public policy and organizational strategy, Simpson steps into the role with deep experience and a strong track record of advancing the credit union movement across multiple states and on the national stage. He will lead America’s Credit Unions in executing its strategic vision: amplifying the credit union voice in Washington, safeguarding the tax status, enhancing member engagement and delivering top-tier products and events. With experience managing high-stakes policy challenges and a career built on putting members first, Simpson is well-positioned to unify and energize the movement, ACU wrote in a press release.
“We are thrilled to welcome Scott Simpson as our next CEO,” Patrick Pierce, America’s Credit Unions’ chair and CEO of City & County Credit Union, said. “Scott brings a powerful blend of state and national advocacy experience, a strategic mindset, and a deep belief in the credit union mission. His leadership is exactly what our movement needs as we look to the future.”
Simpson currently serves as President and CEO of the California Credit Union League and Nevada’s Credit Unions, and CEO of Utah’s Credit Unions, where he championed a unique, cross-state partnership model designed to maximize collaboration while maintaining strong, state-level leadership. Under his direction, credit unions in California, Nevada and Utah navigated complex political environments, strengthened their advocacy efforts, and expanded their reach to better serve diverse communities. He also led the establishment of Fuel Solutions, a nonprofit support organization for state trade associations.
“I’m honored to join America’s Credit Unions at such a pivotal moment,” said Simpson. “Credit unions have always been about people helping people. I look forward to championing that mission and working with our members to grow our impact, protect our interests, and strengthen communities nationwide.”
A recognized leader in credit union advocacy, Simpson has chaired the Credit Union Legislative Action Council (CULAC) and led the association’s National Advocacy Fund. He has also played a key role in developing the next generation of leaders as a longtime faculty member at Western CUNA Management School, where he teaches political, legislative and regulatory advocacy. Simpson will be based out of the Washington, D.C., headquarters of America’s Credit Unions.
Simpson succeeds Jim Nussle, who has led America’s Credit Unions since its formation in 2024 following the successful merger of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) and the National Association of Federally Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU), and previously served as President and CEO of CUNA for nearly a decade. Nussle announced his intent to retire in April 2025, allowing the Board of Directors ample time to identify a new leader for the Association. Nussle will remain in his leadership role through October, where he will lead the Association to build on their success of protecting, empowering and advancing credit union priorities until Simpson takes over.
“On behalf of the board and every member of our organization, I want to extend a sincere thank you to Jim for his service as President and CEO,” Pierce said. “His credit union legacy is one of transformation, collaboration and purpose. His steadfast leadership shepherded America’s Credit Unions through a period of significant change as it became the one, unified voice for the credit union movement. Jim put our movement in a strong position to grow and evolve well into the future, and we wish him all the best as he begins a new chapter.”
The Defense Credit Union Council also extended congratulations to Simpson on his new role. “It will take a steady hand to guide and collaborate across the enterprise,” DCUC added in its statement. “There are many critical issues facing credit unions and their ability to serve their members and communities. These issues will have secondary effects on our system and business partners as well. DCUC will continue to offer our assistance in strengthening the collaborative spirit across our industry.”
The CEO Selection Committee conducted a robust and inclusive search process in partnership with executive search firm Korn Ferry. The committee evaluated a pool of more than 100 candidates, using member feedback to identify the most qualified leader for this pivotal role.