Tom Lex, president and CEO of Heartland Credit Union, has announced he plans to retire in February 2026 after a 45-year career with the organization.
"Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to work alongside an outstanding board and dedicated staff, whose commitment and teamwork have made our success possible," Lex said.
Lex joined HCU in 1980 as a teller and rose through the ranks to various management positions. He was named president in 2014, succeeding Ed Gvazdinskas. Lex was inducted into the Illinois Credit Union Hall of Fame in 2023.
Since Lex assumed his current role, HCU's assets have increased from $231 million in 2014 to more than $500 million by February 2025 and membership has grown from 26,000 to more than 33,000 today.
Jane Kiel, chair of the board of directors, praised Lex's contributions. "Tom's commitment to the credit union, its staff and the wider community has played a vital role in our success, and he has set us on a path for future growth," she said.
Lex has served on board positions with the Sangamon Valley Chapter of Credit Unions, the ICUL Foundation and the Credit Union Political Action Council, in addition to various community boards.
"I am thankful for the chance to serve our members and hope our efforts have fulfilled our mission to improve their lives," he said.
Lex plans to play golf in his retirement and spend more time with his wife, Tracey, and their children and grandchildren.
The HCU board of directors will begin the search for the next president within the coming months.