Clarion County Community Bank in Pennsylvania, First Financial in Arkansas, Malvern Bank in Iowa and Franklin Financial Services in Pennsylvania announced top executive changes in recent weeks.
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Clarion County Community Bank recruits new leader
Clarion County Community Bank in Clarion, Pennsylvania, has a new president and CEO.
The $230 million-asset bank said Travis Heiser, who was CEO of Inner Lakes Federal Credit Union in Westfield, New York, had assumed the roles. He succeeded James Kifer, who led the bank for 20 years.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to be in this role over the past 20 years; to have led the build-out of a new bank that created jobs, grew the local economy and supported many businesses were all important aspects to me,” Kifer said in a press release.
“Our recent expansion into the Erie region with our Flagship Community Bank brand is equally gratifying, but most rewarding were the many people we helped over the years make their dreams a reality,” Kifer added.
Kifer will remain with the company’s board and work with Heiser during a transition period.
During his tenure as CEO of the $146 million-asset Inner Lakes Federal Credit Union, Heiser helped it grow its asset base eightfold.
“I am excited to join the team of Clarion County Community Bank and look forward to working closely with Jim, our company’s board of directors, and our senior management team for the continued growth and success of the bank,” Heiser said “I’m equally excited for all who have the opportunity to continue to grow within our culture and serve the hardworking clients in the markets we serve.”
First Financial in Arkansas promotes to fill top jobs
First Financial Bank in El Dorado, Arkansas, said President and CEO Chris Hegi will retire at the end of this year. The bank promoted from within to replace him.
The $1.7 billion-asset bank said in a press release that Sean Williams, who is now chief retail officer, will become CEO on Jan. 1. First Financial said that Craig Mobley will succeed Hegi as president. Mobley is chief operating officer.
Hegi, who has helmed the bank since 2015, will continue to serve on its board and executive committee. He will remain with the bank as a non-executive advisor through the first quarter to help provide a smooth transition.
Williams joined First Financial in late 2019 with the acquisition of First National Bank of Wynne, where he served as CEO. First Financial said he has been instrumental in the growth of its retail and agriculture markets.
Mobley joined First Financial in 2013, In addition to credit administration, he leads the bank’s niche lending divisions.
“On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to thank Chris Hegi for his many years of leadership at FFB and continuing our longstanding history of growth and success,” said Chairman Jeff Nolan. “We look forward to Chris’ continued service as director and value his guidance during the leadership transition.”
Malvern Bank in Iowa lines up next president
Malvern Bank in Malvern, Iowa, will have a new president in 2025.
The $216 million-asset bank said in a press release that Kate McGann will assume the role on Jan. 1. She is currently the bank’s chief lending officer and is also a director.
She succeeds Jay Burdic, who will remain chairman and CEO, the bank said on its website.
“Having a sound succession plan is vital, especially when the business is family owned. I feel strongly that Kate’s promotion to president will ensure the bank is in good hands for years to come,” Burdic said.
McGann has been with Malvern Bank since 2012, During that time, it tripled its asset size.
“The growth experienced by Malvern Bank and the community in recent years has been transformational and I look forward to being involved in the continuation of that growth,” McGann said. “I am truly honored that the Burdic family has entrusted me with a leadership role in this organization and that they are committed to Malvern Bank remaining a true community bank for decades to come.”
Franklin Financial in Pennsylvania hunts for next CEO
Franklin Financial Services in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, said it is looking for a new leader.
The $2.2 billion-asset Franklin disclosed in a regulatory filing that Timothy Henry, the banking company’s president and CEO, plans to retire on April 29.
The company’s board formed a succession and search committee to identify and engage Henry’s successor, according to the filing.
