First Western Bank names Willie Cowgur as Bentonville market president

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) 228 views 

First Western Bank named Willie Cowgur as Bentonville market president on Tuesday (Jan. 21). Cowgur joined First Western Bank in April 2022 as senior vice president, business development officer. He previously worked for more than two decades in leadership roles at Walmart and Sam’s Club in Bentonville.

“Willie is passionate about seeing our community and our customers thrive, and his deep understanding of the unique market dynamics in Bentonville benefits our customers and our banking team at First Western,” said John Hampton, First Western chairman and CEO. “He has made a significant impact on our bank since joining us in 2022, and we are pleased to elevate his role to Market President.”

Cowgur graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in history. He is a native of Bentonville and has served on the Bentonville Public School Board since 2011.

“Our culture is relationship and service driven at First Western. We excel at helping businesses, families and organizations reach their dreams,” said Cowgur. “Leading First Western’s growth in my hometown is a dream come true. Bentonville’s economic growth, rich arts and cultural life, and natural beauty make this the best place in the world to live, work and play.”

First Western Bank, founded in 1910 in Booneville, Ark., has $702.655 million in assets and more than $591 million in deposits.