Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A springtime change is coming to the staff of the Illinois Bankers Association. A recent press release stated that the CEO of the IBA has decided to step down after the 2026 spring legislative session.

The CEO is Randy Hultgren, leaving behind what some say is hefty expectations and big position to fill.

Prior to the association, Hultgren served in the Illinois General Assembly from 1999 through 2011, Starting off in the Illinois House, and finishing in the Illinois Senate. Hultgren was elected to the US House of Representatives to represent the 14th Congressional District in Northern Illinois.

While in Congress, Hultgren also served on the House Financial Services Committee.

T.J. Burge, President and CEO of the Community Partners Savings Bank in Salem, Illinois, and association board chair, says, “While we would have preferred Randy stay, we respect his decision to step down next year and we’re thankful for his accomplishments on behalf of Illinois bankers. He has led the IBA through a period of unprecedented success and his legislative expertise as a former state and federal lawmaker made us the most effective voice for banks in Springfield, Washington, D.C. and Chicago. We’re grateful for the time Randy is committing to our search process, participating in the spring legislative session in Springfield and helping the next leader transition into office. Randy’s successor will have big shoes to fill.”

Despite Hultgren’s retirement, the association says it will continue to maintain an active presence in Springfield, Chicago, and Washington D.C to advocate for a positive business climate that benefits the entire banking industry and its communities