FACE OF BANKING FIRST COMMUNITY BANK

DALE COLE, CHAIRMAN & CEO

On Aug. 4, 1997, 153 local investors’ dreams came true when First Community Bank—with 14 employees and $3.5 million in capital—opened at 710 St Louis Street in Batesville after months of preparation by its founders. Today, First Community Bank has expanded to 565 employees and is ranked ninth largest among banks chartered in Arkansas.

First Community Bank’s biggest strength is its employees, and hiring the right staff remains a top priority as it expands into new markets. CEO and Chairman Dale Cole cited the hiring of “the original team” in Batesville, followed by the addition of David Wood as market president for the Searcy and Cabot region, as “a pivotal moment in company history.”

For First Community Bank, the community-oriented mind-set of its dedicated staff sets it apart from competitors. “We use the same relationship-banking model today as in the beginning, with one exception: technology has made our process easier,” Cole said.

Cole knows that wherever you find a strong bank, you will find a strong community. And wherever you find strong communities, you will find strong banks.

“I love my job because it allows me to help people. Whether I’m working with customers or employees, it’s rewarding to help other people achieve their dreams,” he said. “By working together, we can make good things happen for everyone in our community.”