Intellinetics CEO James DeSocio to retire Feb. 27

Eight-year CEO James DeSocio will retire after steering acquisitions, debt reduction and NYSE American listing; Intellinetics readies successor

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:23pm

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James F. DeSocio, the CEO of Intellinetics, Inc., a digital transformation solutions provider, has announced his retirement effective February 27, 2026, concluding an eight-year tenure at the helm of the company. Under DeSocio's leadership, Intellinetics has undergone a significant transformation, including completing two strategic acquisitions, paying down $6.3 million in debt, and successfully listing on the NYSE American exchange.

Why it matters

DeSocio's retirement marks the end of an era for Intellinetics, a company that has grown significantly under his leadership. The transition to a new CEO will be crucial in maintaining the momentum and continued growth of the business, as Intellinetics looks to build on the strong foundation established during DeSocio's tenure.

The details

During his eight-year tenure as CEO, DeSocio led Intellinetics through a series of strategic initiatives, including the acquisition of a $6 million annual revenue digital transformation company in March 2020, followed by the acquisition of a $3.5 million annual revenue K-12-focused Document Management SaaS business two years later. These acquisitions strengthened Intellinetics' capabilities, expanded its reach, and brought exceptional talent into the organization. Additionally, the company paid down $6.3 million in debt and acquisition earnouts using working capital, while simultaneously funding new product development. In September 2022, Intellinetics successfully listed on the NYSE American exchange.

  • James DeSocio will retire as CEO of Intellinetics on February 27, 2026.
  • Intellinetics completed its first acquisition, a $6 million annual revenue digital transformation company, in March 2020.
  • Intellinetics completed its second acquisition, a $3.5 million annual revenue K-12-focused Document Management SaaS business, two years after the first acquisition.
  • Intellinetics paid down $6.3 million in debt and acquisition earnouts using working capital while simultaneously funding new product development.
  • Intellinetics successfully listed on the NYSE American exchange in September 2022.

The players

James F. DeSocio

The outgoing CEO of Intellinetics, Inc., who has led the company through a significant transformation over the past eight years.

Rob Schroeder

The former Chairman of Intellinetics, who brought DeSocio on board with a clear mandate to transform the company.

Joe Spain

The CFO of Intellinetics, who worked alongside DeSocio and Schroeder to transform the company.

Matt Chretien

The founder of Intellinetics, who collaborated with DeSocio, Schroeder, and Spain to transform the company.

Michael Taglich

The current Chairman of the Board of Intellinetics, who praised DeSocio's leadership and the foundation he has laid for the company's future growth.

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What they’re saying

“Eight years ago, I stepped into the role of CEO at Intellinetics when we were a public company with $2.5 million in annual revenue with big ambitions and plenty of work ahead. I was brought in by our Chairman at the time, Rob Schroeder, with a clear mandate: build a new strategy and create something enduring.”

— James F. DeSocio, Outgoing CEO (stocktitan.net)

“Jim and his team's hard work transformed Intellinetics and has laid the foundation for years of future growth. He has much to be proud of with his stewardship of the company, and on behalf of the Board and the shareholders of Intellinetics, we wish him well and are thankful for his leadership and service. Godspeed!”

— Michael Taglich, Chairman of the Board (stocktitan.net)

What’s next

Intellinetics has developed a comprehensive succession plan to ensure a seamless transition, with discussions underway for a new CEO to step in and build upon the strong foundation Jim established.

The takeaway

DeSocio's retirement marks the end of a transformative era for Intellinetics, as the company has grown from a $2.5 million annual revenue public company to a $17 million annual revenue Digital Transformation SaaS provider under his leadership. The successful transition to a new CEO will be crucial in maintaining the company's momentum and continued growth.