CIT Group Inc., a provider of financing to small businesses and middle-market companies, has elected John A. Thain chairman and chief executive officer effective immediately. Thain replaces Peter J. Tobin, who has been acting as interim CEO. Tobin will remain a director of CIT. 

 

Vice Admiral John Ryan, lead director, said, “John is a well-respected financial services executive and proven leader who is uniquely qualified to lead CIT at this critical stage. CIT and its customers will benefit enormously from his breadth of experience, industry acumen and deep knowledge of the financial services sector. We have the utmost confidence in John and are pleased to welcome him to CIT.”  

 

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead the newly reorganized CIT. The company’s numerous market-leading positions are evidence of the resiliency of the franchise and its unwavering commitment to its customers,” Thain said. “Much has been accomplished in recent months to position CIT for renewed success. We will build upon this progress and work even harder to support small and mid-market businesses. CIT can and will serve an important role in the recovery of the U.S. economy and the creation of jobs.”

 

Thain previously served as chairman and chief executive officer of Merrill Lynch until its sale to Bank of America, which he brokered.  Previously, Thain also held the position of CEO of the New York Stock Exchange, where he presided over the exchange’s global transformation into a publicly traded entity. Thain spent the majority of his career at Goldman Sachs Group, where he rose to president and chief operating officer.