After 36 years, Larry Wilson stepping aside as First Arkansas Bank & Trust CEO
by February 25, 2026 12:20 am 909 views
First Arkansas Bank & Trust (FAB&T) announced Tuesday (Feb. 24) that Keith Collard, director of internal audit and risk manager, will be president and CEO. Larry T. Wilson, who held the role for 36 years, will remain chairman of FAB&T’s board of directors.
Collard brings more than 30 years of experience to the position, including a decade at FAB&T.
“I am confident that Keith and our leadership team will help grow our bank to new heights and build on the great reputation FAB&T has enjoyed for more than 75 years,” Wilson said. “While I will remain present, I have complete confidence in turning over the bank’s day-to-day operations to our executive committee. I could not be more excited for the future of FAB&T.”
Amber Tierney will assume Collard’s role as director of internal audit. FAB&T also shared that Gary Edwards will become chief financial officer, following Kim Cullum Robinson’s retirement at the end of March after 36 years at the company. Edwards is a certified public accountant who previously worked with BKD CPAs & Advisors.
In addition to Edwards, Rachael McCain, senior vice president and senior lending officer, and Michelle Terry, senior vice president and general counsel, will join FAB&T’s executive committee.
“It’s impossible to accurately describe Larry Wilson’s impact on FAB&T,” said Roger Sundermeier, senior vice president and chief brand officer. “Whether giving back to our employees, supporting the Little Rock Air Force Base, or mentoring the next generation at the Arkansas Bankers Association, public service is one of his core values. As he transitions to chairman of the board, we know he will continue to give back to our community and state — both from inside and outside the walls of FAB&T.”
Under Wilson’s leadership, FAB&T expanded to 19 branch locations across central and north central Arkansas and grown to more than $1 billion in assets with account holders in every state.
FAB&T was the first bank in Arkansas to provide interactive teller machines at all branch locations, enabling extended customer banking hours with live teller service.
Additionally, FAB&T owns a credit card division, which serves bank customers and agent bank partners across North America.