By Andrea Clue

First & Farmers National Bank recently announced the promotion of employee Brad Hodges to Columbia Market President/Senior Lender.

Brad joined First & Farmers National Bank in June 2017 as Columbia Market's Senior Lender. Prior to joining First & Farmers, Brad served as Market President for PBI's Greensburg location. He currently serves on the bank's Executive Loan Committee, Managed Assets Committee, and chairs the Columbia Market Senior Loan Committee.

Banking is not Brad's only job. He is proud to be a lifelong farmer who resides on the family farm in Green County, Kentucky, raising corn and soybeans and managing a beef cattle herd. Brad's experience in agriculture, both from a hands-on and a banking perspective, was instrumental in guiding local farmers through last year's PPP loan process. In fact, his energy, work ethic, and experience resulted in him being the bank-wide top producer for PPP loans.

FFNB President & CEO Terry Pugh stated, "Brad has made a significant impact on our bank and the Columbia Market in particular. His leadership skills have enabled him to develop the team in Columbia as he demonstrates as much interest in his teammates' clients and interests as his own. Further, Brad's farming background allows him to better understand the challenges faced by our agri-businesses. I am genuinely excited Brad is a part of FFNB and will continue to lead the Columbia Market and the bank as a member of our senior management team."

FFNB Board Member and retiring Columbia Market President Ann Martin added, "Having worked with him for the past five years, I am pleased that Brad Hodges will assume the responsibility of First & Farmers National Bank Columbia Market President. I have seen his commitment to work with our customers and assist them in achieving their financial goals. Brad's banking experience and his leadership abilities make him a perfect choice for this position. I feel confident that he will continue the FFNB commitment of 'Putting the Customer First'."

Brad has been working closely with Ms. Martin to ensure a seamless transition of leadership in the Columbia market and throughout the bank. "First off, I want to thank Ms. Ann Martin for both her leadership and her generosity in sharing her wealth of knowledge over the five years that I have worked with her. I am eager to capitalize on the momentum of our bank's recent success and lead our team to even greater heights. I appreciate the opportunity that First & Farmers National Bank has extended to me and my family."

First & Farmers National Bank, Inc., a community bank with assets in excess of $653 million, offers eleven banking locations and serves the financial needs of customers in Adair, Clinton, Cumberland, and Pulaski counties. First & Farmers is very proud of their long history as a well-respected, safe, sound, and profitable bank. For more information about First & Farmers National Bank, please visit www.firstandfarmers.com or call (270) 384-2361.