Here’s how you know someone’s made a real impact: when their retirement announcement reads less like “so-and-so is leaving” and more like “an era is ending.” That’s the vibe with Tony Kitt‘s decision to step down as President and CEO of Plexcity at the close of 2026.
Kitt didn’t just run Plexcity—he built it from scratch. We’re talking founder-level dedication here, turning what started as an idea into a genuinely trusted player in the credit union world. And after more than ten years at the helm, plus a career in the credit union movement that’s left some serious footprints, he’s ready to pass the torch.
More Than Just a Corner Office
What made Kitt’s leadership distinctive? A few things. First, he was relentlessly people-focused. Second, he wasn’t afraid to actually do things (shocking, we know). And third, he genuinely believed in the power of cooperation—particularly through credit union league systems, which became a cornerstone of his approach.
His resume tells the story of someone who showed up where it mattered. He helped push forward early payments and fintech solutions back when that wasn’t the obvious move. He served on the board of Ensenta and contributed to its eventual acquisition by Jack Henry. The Credit Union Museum featured him in their “Unsung Heroes” exhibit. He was inducted into the African-American Credit Union Coalition Hall of Fame. These aren’t participation trophies—they’re recognition of someone who moved the needle on inclusion, innovation, and leadership.
Oh, and before all this? Kitt spent 20 years as an officer in the United States Air Force, handling financial management in both staff and command roles. So yeah, the guy knows a thing or two about discipline and execution.
What People Are Saying
“Tony is the kind of leader who doesn’t just build organizations, he builds momentum,” said Paul Mercer, President and CEO of the Ohio Credit Union League and Chair of Plexcity’s Board of Directors. “He has consistently challenged the status quo, elevated those around him, and led with both conviction and humility. Plexcity has grown to what it is today because of his vision. It will continue to thrive because of the foundation he has built.”
That’s high praise, but it tracks. Under Kitt’s watch, Plexcity became known for forward-thinking solutions, solid partnerships, and a culture that actually meant something beyond a poster in the break room. His knack for reading where the industry was headed—and then acting on it—positioned the company to stay relevant even as financial services kept shapeshifting around it.
Kitt himself kept it characteristically grounded: “It has been an extraordinary journey. To build something from the ground up alongside such talented and committed people is something I will always be grateful for. I believe deeply in the future of Plexcity and in the leaders who will carry it forward.”
What Happens Next
Plexcity isn’t winging this transition. They’ve brought in Humanidei to run a national search for the next President and CEO.
“This moment is not just a CEO transition. It is a critical moment of impact for our system,” Mercer noted. “We are looking for a leader who will honor what has been built while bringing the courage and clarity to take Plexcity even further. We know this search will surface exceptional candidates who are ready to carry us forward.”
Kitt will stay on through the end of 2026, giving everyone involved plenty of runway to make this handoff smooth and thoughtful. Because if there’s one thing worse than losing a great leader, it’s botching the transition afterward.
So here’s to Tony Kitt—a leader who built something real, elevated the people around him, and is leaving the place better than he found it. That’s a career worth celebrating.