James Arnold brings more than 20 years of local banking experience to FBT
LUBBOCK – September 20, 2023 – First Bank & Trust, a division of HTLF Bank today announced James Arnold has been named President and CEO. Mr. Arnold brings more than 20 years of local banking experience and leadership in West Texas to FBT.
Mr. Arnold joins FBT after leading American Bank of Commerce, most recently as President and CEO, and delivering significant asset and loan growth.
Mr. Arnold received his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin and his Master of Education from Texas Tech University. He’s active in the community, serving in various volunteer positions including chairman of the advisory board for Preston Smith International Airport, school board for the Lubbock Independent School District, and previously as chairman of the City of Lubbock Charter Review Committee. James was born in Odessa and lives in Lubbock with his wife and family.
“We are thrilled for James to join First Bank & Trust and HTLF,” said Bruce K. Lee, President and CEO of HTLF. “His deep roots in West Texas and extensive banking experience in the area will help deliver strength, growth and insight to FBT customers and the community.”
First Bank & Trust is a division of HTLF Bank, which is wholly owned by Heartland Financial USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: HTLF).
About HTLF
Heartland Financial USA, Inc., is a bank holding company operating under the brand name HTLF, with assets of $20.2 billion as of June 30, 2023. HTLF’s banks serve communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Texas and Wisconsin. HTLF is committed to its core commercial business, supported by a strong retail operation, and provides a diversified line of financial services including treasury management, wealth management, investments and residential mortgage. Additional information is available at www.htlf.com.