TSL Express Daily News

ABINGDON, Va., Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- First Bank and Trust Company and its parent holding company, First Bancorp, Inc., are pleased to announce the promotion of James T. Bowen II to Senior Vice President – Credit Administration. Bowen will take on this expanded role after 13 years of dedicated service to the organization, bringing his extensive expertise in credit management and banking to oversee the bank's loan portfolio and credit culture.

Bowen, a 2008 graduate of Virginia Tech with a B.S. in Finance, has demonstrated strong leadership as Vice President of Credit Administration since March 2019. With over a decade of experience in the banking industry, he has developed a keen understanding of credit analysis, loan review, and portfolio management. In his new role as Senior Vice President, Bowen will lead a team responsible for managing the bank's loan portfolio, ensuring quality, and overseeing credit analysis, loan review, and appraisal management.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to work directly with a talented group of leaders at the bank, focusing on continuing the strong credit culture that First Bank and Trust has established," Bowen stated. "This role presents a great opportunity for me to further contribute to the bank's success by fostering an environment that promotes sound credit decisions and maintains a high-quality loan portfolio."

Bowen's promotion reflects his ongoing commitment to the bank's goals and values, particularly in maintaining a strong, prudent approach to credit. He will collaborate closely with senior leadership to uphold First Bank and Trust Company's high standards of loan portfolio management, aligning with the bank's strategic vision and long-term growth objectives.

"James has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication throughout his career with us," stated Raleigh Hayter, SVP/Chief Credit Officer. "His promotion to Senior Vice President is a testament to his hard work and commitment to our values. We are confident that he will drive our credit administration efforts to new heights."

In addition to his professional achievements, Bowen is an active member of the Virginia Bankers Association's (VBA) Lending Executives Group, underscoring his dedication to advancing the banking industry and his role within it.

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 and the state's Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valleys. First Bank and Trust Company also operates throughout northeast Tennessee and North Carolina. Financial solutions are addressed by offering free checking products for personal and business accounts, savings, money markets, and time deposit accounts. Lending solutions are managed by mortgage, agricultural, and commercial lending divisions. Comprehensive wealth management solutions are available through trust and brokerage service representatives.

For more information, visit Who We Are | First Bank & Trust Company or contact Marketing at marketing@firstbank.com.