The Most Powerful Business Leaders in Arizona for 2025 includes Amy Hysell, president and CEO, Arizona Financial Credit Union. Meet her here.
Amy Hysell, president and CEO, Arizona Financial Credit Union
Background: Hysell leads Arizona Financial Credit Union, serving more than 175,000 members across Arizona. With nearly 30 years of service to Arizona Financial that helped shape the credit union’s business operations and culture, Hysell took the helm as president and CEO in January 2023. She was one of Az Business magazine’s Most Influential Women in Arizona in 2023.
Qualities leaders must have to succeed: “Emotional intelligence — now and always. Leaders must authentically connect with employees, recognizing that what someone says may not reflect what they’re truly feeling. Understanding those unspoken needs fosters trust, collaboration and mutual care. You can’t fake authenticity — your team will know. When employees feel genuinely understood, they’re more willing to share, contribute, and engage.”
Leadership style: “I’m a servant leader who’s also highly accountable — both to myself and my team. I prefer to say I hold people ‘capable.’ I give them meaningful work and ensure they have what they need to succeed. My role is to support them, not the other way around.”
Evolution of leadership style: “Early in my career, I was a top-down leader, focused on output over people. A leadership coach once illustrated my habit of racing ahead — literally leaving her behind on a walk. That moment changed me. I realized I was moving too fast without bringing others along. Since then, I’ve prioritized emotional intelligence, connection, and authentic leadership — and found much more joy in my work.”
Value of longevity: “I’ve held over 20 roles at Arizona Financial Credit Union, so every few years brought new challenges and opportunities. I know the organization inside and out, which allows me to lead with deep understanding across all areas.”
Industry outlook: “More consolidation is inevitable. Twenty years ago, there were over 10,000 credit unions — today there are about 4,000. Smaller institutions face challenges in meeting regulatory and technology demands, so joining forces will become more common. But with smart cooperation, the industry can continue to grow and serve members effectively.”
