First Bank and Trust Company Announces Leadership Appointments
January 2, 2026
First Bank and Trust Company is pleased to announce two key leadership appointments effective January 1, 2026.
Jim Edmondson, SVP/Operations Officer, First Bank and Trust Company
Jim Edmondson Promoted to Senior Vice President/Operations Officer
Jim Edmondson will be promoted to Senior Vice President / Operations Officer where he will lead a comprehensive review of current operations and workflows within the Bank’s Customer Deposit Operations and Treasury Management Department. Working closely with department leaders and their teams, Jim will identify opportunities to enhance efficiencies and cost-savings, strengthen internal controls, and streamline daily processes.
Jim’s efforts will be centered on elevating the customer experience, ensuring that interactions are efficient, processes are clearer, and the Bank’s systems and teams are aligned to serve customers with greater ease and consistency. With more than 40 years of banking experience in audit, operations, and finance, Jim brings deep expertise that will help modernize and refine daily functions, all while maintaining the community-bank service culture that customers value.
“Jim’s leadership will directly support our ongoing mission to deliver the best possible experience for every customer who banks with us,” said Mark Nelson, President and CEO of First Bank and Trust Company. “His extensive background will be invaluable as we examine our core processes and seek ways to further optimize our services to make banking with First Bank and Trust even more efficient, intuitive, and reliable.”
Aaron Hicks, VP/Internal Audit, First Bank and Trust Company
Aaron Hicks to Lead the Internal Audit Department
The Bank also announced that Aaron Hicks, who joined the organization in July 2025, will lead the Internal Audit Department beginning January 1. Aaron has more than 25 years of banking and finance experience and will guide the Bank’s audit functions with a focus on reinforcing transparency, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
By continuing to strengthen internal audit oversight, Aaron’s leadership will also play an important role in supporting a safe and seamless customer experience, ensuring that the Bank’s operations remain sound, secure, and aligned with best practices.
“Our customers trust us with their financial well-being,” Nelson added. “Aaron’s expertise will help us maintain the highest standards of internal control, which ultimately enhances the confidence and peace of mind our customers deserve.”
Aaron currently serves on the UVA-Wise Foundation Board and is a proud volunteer with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
About First Bank and Trust Company
First Bank and Trust Company, one of the top community banks in the United States, is a diversified financial services firm with office locations throughout Southwest Virginia, the state's Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valleys, Northeast Tennessee, and North Carolina. The bank offers financial solutions through checking products for personal and business accounts, savings, money markets, and time deposit accounts. Lending services are provided through mortgage, agricultural, and commercial divisions. Comprehensive wealth management solutions are also available through trust and brokerage services.
For more information, visit firstbank.com or contact Kaitlyn Widner, VP of Marketing, at kpruitt@firstbank.com.