Gairhan Set to Take Over as President, CEO at United Bank

Nathan Gairhan will begin work at Springdale-based United Bank on Thursday, and ultimately take over as its president and CEO.

Current president and CEO John Scott confirmed the move Tuesday, calling Gairhan “a perfect fit” for UB.

Gairhan leaves First Western Bank in Rogers, where he spent 14 years as regional president.

“The timing is just right,” Gairhan said. “I’ve had 20 really good years at First Western, but this is a new opportunity and I’m very excited about it.”

Scott and two other investors recently purchased a string of Kubota dealerships and he will serve as CEO for that group. Scott will remain part of UB’s board of directors.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency also must complete its vetting process of Gairhan, so no timetable has been set for him to take over executive duties from Scott.

“We can take as much time as necessary to do it right,” Scott said of the transition.

Scott said Gairhan was a natural candidate for UB’s opening.

“He made the list, first of all, because of his reputation in the industry and his reputation in the community,” Scott said of Gairhan. “It’s impeccable.

“We were also looking for someone who has the necessary banking experience, plus a disproportionate amount of experience working with regulators. He has both, so it was an absolutely perfect fit for us.”

UB has been working under a cease-and-desist order issued by the Office of Thrift Supervision since November 2010. Gairhan said UB’s challenges are not unique.

“United has experienced some of the difficulties that all banks in Northwest Arkansas have experienced,” he said. “I’m looking forward to pitching in and helping grow the bank in this market.”