Douglas C. Mills has been a key figure at First Busey Corporation since its inception in 1980. He has held the position of Chairman and CEO for many years, showcasing significant leadership in the company’s growth. Under his watch, First...

Douglas C. Mills has been a key figure at First Busey Corporation since its inception in 1980. He has held the position of Chairman and CEO for many years, showcasing significant leadership in the company’s growth. Under his watch, First Busey has marked its presence in the finance industry, notably achieving record earnings for fifteen consecutive years leading up to 2005. He has a straightforward approach to executive compensation, focusing on aligning incentives with the company’s performance, as seen in the Management and Associate Dividend Program, which ties bonuses to earnings targets. Mills is not just a figurehead; he actively participates in operational decisions, having taken on and successfully managed roles of responsibility, especially during transitional periods for the organization. An interesting aspect of his tenure is his substantial insider ownership, which has fluctuated notably, peaking at $36 million before settling down. This aligns his interests with those of shareholders, as he has a vested interest in the company’s performance. After announcing his retirement in 2010, Mills left behind a legacy of strategic growth and resilience, making him a prominent name in the banking sector of Illinois.