President and CEO of CFB Holding Company, Thomas D. Soenksen, announced his retirement effective Thursday, February 1, 2018, following a long career in banking in the greater Clinton, IA, community.
Soenksen was instrumental in all facets of the formation of Citizens First Bank. In 1999, the vision for Citizens First Bank started to take shape. In six months, the organizing group raised capital, acquired a building, hired employees, and received regulatory approval for operation of the new bank. Soenksen was President and CEO of the bank from March 2000 to July 2015.
President Kathy Forrest stated, “We wish Tom the very best during his retirement. His values and leadership are instilled in each of us here at the bank, and we are grateful for his leadership and vision. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have had the privilege of working with Tom over the last 18 years.”
To aid in bank growth, CFB Holding Company was formed in 2002. In 2015, Soenksen devoted primary focus on strategic initiatives, in his role as President and CEO of CFB Holding Company. Forrest assumed the role of Citizens First Bank President, taking responsibility for day-to-day operations. Both have been key executives with Citizens First Bank since its inception and integral parts the bank’s growth and success. Citizens First Bank has grown to nearly $200 million in assets and three local branches since 2000.
During his tenure, Soenksen also turned his attention to the community by serving on the Board of Directors of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation, Clinton YMCA, Chamber of Commerce, River King/Queen Boosters, and Clinton Country Club.
Current Chairman, and one of the original organizers, John McEleney stated, “Citizens First Bank would not have been created and would not exist today were it not for Tom Soenksen. He has been a force in the Clinton financial community for decades…. I am grateful for his unparalleled contribution to the success of our institution and for his generous support of the Gateway Community.”
About Citizens First Bank
Chartered in 2000, Citizens First Bank plays an important role in community banking. Its products provide customers with effective, locally-owned banking choices, e-solutions, and services expertise. Citizens First’s main office is located at 1442 Lincoln Way in Clinton, with branches also at 403 S. Washington Boulevard in Camanche, IA, and at 1329 N. 2nd Street, Clinton.