PANAMA CITY, FL – Innovations Financial Credit Union announces the upcoming retirement of Chief Executive Officer David Southall, effective December 31, 2025. His retirement marks the conclusion of a distinguished 39-year career in the credit union industry and more than three decades of service to Innovations and its members.
Southall began his career in 1987 with NCSC Federal Credit Union—now Innovations Financial Credit Union—starting as a teller and rising through roles including Senior Teller, Assistant Branch Manager, Branch Manager, and Vice President of Lending. From 2000 to 2004, he served as an Account Relationship Manager at CUNA Mutual Group, supporting credit unions across Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi. He returned to Innovations in 2004 to assume the role of President & CEO, guiding the organization through an era of growth, modernization, and cultural transformation.
Decades of Growth, Innovation & Leadership
Throughout Southall’s tenure, Innovations grew from a small institution into a vibrant, modern, and widely recognized credit union. When he began his career, Innovations operated only two branches and held approximately $30 million in assets. Today, the credit union has expanded to ten locations—including two outside of Bay County: one on Main Street in Chipley and another in Bonifay—and now holds more than $620 million in assets. The team has grown as well, increasing from about ten employees to more than one hundred dedicated team members serving communities across Northwest Florida.
Southall also helped guide several of Innovations’ most significant milestones. In 2005, he supported the transition to the name Innovations Federal Credit Union, helping establish a refreshed brand and vision. That momentum carried forward in 2022 when Innovations converted from a federal to a state charter, adopting the name Innovations Financial Credit Union—a pivotal change that expanded membership eligibility into Holmes, Washington, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, and Walton counties. Membership growth continued in 2024 with the addition of Okaloosa, Franklin, and Liberty counties, signaling a new chapter of regional expansion.
He also played an instrumental role in the acquisition and system conversion of First National Bank Northwest Florida, ensuring a smooth transition for both members and employees. Along the way, he represented Innovations at national and international conferences, sharing the credit union’s culture-driven approach to service. His creativity helped establish a lively and memorable social media presence—complete with music videos, flash mobs, and team-driven content—that strengthened both brand visibility and internal culture.
A Commitment to Community
Southall’s dedication extended far beyond the credit union. Throughout his career, he actively served organizations that make a meaningful impact on the region. He contributed his time and leadership to causes such as the American Heart Association, the Bay County and Panama City Beach Chambers of Commerce, the American Cancer Society, United Way of Northwest Florida, and March of Dimes. His passion for education led him to serve on the FSU Panama City Development Board and Dean’s Council, and he further supported the industry through service on the CU24 Network Board.
Through these efforts, Southall helped build strong community connections, advance charitable initiatives, and reinforce Innovations’ role as a committed and caring community partner.
A Leadership Transition Marked by Respect and Continuity
“David’s leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment to our members and team have left an extraordinary mark on this credit union,” said Josh Scribner, Chair of the Board of Directors. “He guided Innovations through growth and change with dedication and heart, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.”
As part of the Board’s planned succession, Scott Gladden, who has been serving as President since March, will step into the role of President and Chief Executive Officer upon Southall’s retirement in December. Gladden has worked alongside Southall for more than 20 years and has been instrumental in Innovations’ strategic growth and operational excellence.
“It’s been an incredible journey,” said Southall. “From my first day as a teller to today, I’ve had the privilege of working with an exceptional team who truly care about our members and communities. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I have complete confidence in Scott’s leadership and the bright future ahead for Innovations.”
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About Innovations Financial Credit Union
Innovations Financial Credit Union has served its members since 1952 by helping them to build a sound financial future. Presently, Innovations has over 26,300 members and manages assets of more than $620 million. Innovations Financial Credit Union serves the financial needs of people who live, work, attend school, or worship in Bay, Holmes, Washington, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Walton, Okaloosa, Franklin, and Liberty Counties. For more information about Innovations Financial Credit Union, please contact us at 850.233.4400 or visit www.InnovationsFCU.org.
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