First National Bank appoints new leadership to prioritize business

Leadership at local First National Bank of Omaha locations is changing, all to better serve area businesses and communities.

The Nebraska-based bank announced that Stan Free has been named regional vice president of community banking. Frank Roberts and John Kretchmer each have been promoted to managing director of community banking.

The positions are meant to prioritize business growth for communities served by First National Bank.

"Stan, Frank, and John bring strength and experience to this leadership team that I'm confident will help businesses see success," said Tim Struthers, senior vice president for community banking, in a news release.

"In addition to their experience in guiding teams and serving businesses, this group is involved in and deeply committed to the communities they serve," Struthers continued. "We believe our communities, customers and the team will thrive under their leadership."

In his role as regional vice president, Free – who joined the bank in 1993 – will work with teams responsible for business clients including Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota. He'll also be responsible for leading and improving First National Bank's community banking in the region.

As managing directors, Roberts and Kretchmer will oversee credit decisions and lead local teams as they advise business customers, the release said.

Roberts, who also joined the bank in 1993, will oversee a team of relationship managers in DeKalb, Rockford, Lake in the Hills and Belvidere.

Kretchmer, who joined the bank in 2010 and has 30 years of banking experience, will lead relationship managers in Yorkville, Geneva, Oswego and Sandwich.

First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska, and has more than 50,000 business customers representing a variety of sizes and industries in the region, the release shows.

First National of Nebraska and its affiliated have more than $24 billion in assets with 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Texas.