Merchants and Planters Bank has announced the promotion of three staff members.
The Newport-based bank said in a release the promotions were due to the growth and expansion of its organization.
Josh Brandt has been promoted to Vice President and Branch Manager over the Searcy market. Brandt will continue to offer trust and wealth management services and oversee all lending and banking operations. He has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Arkansas State University and is a certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor. Josh began his career with Merchants and Planters Bank in August 2011 and “…has consistently devoted himself to being a well-versed leader within the organization,” according to the release.
Wanda Mueller has been promoted to Manager of the Bookkeeping Department. She holds an associate’s degree in business office technology from Arkansas College of Technology and brings thirty years of experience. The bank said Mueller “…has been instrumental in streamlining bookkeeping procedures to make her department more efficient and accurate. She strives to ensure her team has the knowledge and tools needed to provide excellent customer service at all times.”
And Abigail Stephens has been promoted to Branch Coordinator and will assist with the lending and daily operations of the Searcy office. Stephens holds an associate’s degree from Arkansas State University-Beebe and is a lifelong resident of Searcy. She began her M&P career in October 2021 and “…quickly realized her affinity for community banking. Her banking expertise and the genuine love she has for her community have made her a favorite among customers,” the release said.
“I’m proud to recognize the accomplishments and professional potential of each of these team members,” said Jim S. Gowen, Jr., president and CEO of Merchants and Planters. “They represent our organization with integrity and are invested in the success of our bank and our community. I’m always pleased to promote from within the organization because it opens the door for others to excel and allows us to add new members to our M&P family.”
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