The following is a press release sent out October 25, 2024 from First Financial Bank:
El Dorado – First Financial Bank announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Sean Williams to succeed Chris Hegi as the company’s Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2025. Mr. Williams currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer.
In addition, Craig Mobley has been named President of First Financial Bank effective January 1, 2025. Mr. Mobley currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
Mr. Hegi, who has served as FFB’s President and Chief Executive Officer since 2015, will continue to serve on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee where he will lead a newly formed Board level Finance and Strategy Committee. In addition, Mr. Hegi will remain with the bank as a non executive advisor through the first quarter to ensure a smooth transition.
Mr. Williams joined FFB in late 2019 with the acquisition of First National Bank of Wynne where he served as CEO. He has been instrumental in the growth of FFB’s retail and agriculture markets and has helped lead the bank’s ongoing technology advancement focus.
Mr. Mobley joined FFB in 2013 bringing extensive regulatory, retail and operational experience to the bank. In addition to credit administration, Craig leads the bank’s niche lending divisions which have all experienced considerable growth in recent years.
“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 Jeff Nolan, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “We look forward to Chris’ continued service as director and value his guidance during the leadership transition.”
“We are also very excited about our new leadership team” stated Mr. Nolan. “Sean Williams brings many years of experience as a successful bank leader and has helped FFB continue to grow its retail and lending operations. Craig Mobley has been an integral part of FFB’s success over the past decade with responsibility for a significant part of the bank’s operations and administrative functions. We look forward to Sean and Craig leading the bank into our next era of growth and success in their new positions.”
First Financial Bank, founded in 1934, is a trusted and reliable financial partner for individuals and businesses. With a mission to provide personalized and innovative solutions, First Financial Bank offers a comprehensive suite of financial products and services delivered with unmatched service. Whether you’re looking to open a new checking account, finance a farm, expand your small business, or invest for the future, First Financial Bank is in the Business of YOU.
