Equity Bancshares, a holding company based in Wichita, Kansas, has announced the promotion of Chris Navratil to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and the resignation of Eric Newell, the current CFO. The company is the parent company of Equity Bank.
According to Brad S. Elliott, Chairman and CEO of Equity, the company values entrepreneurial spirit and is home to innovative thinkers and leaders who can quickly make an impact. Chris Navratil’s promotion is seen as an opportunity to leverage his financial acumen, leadership skills, and experience.
Navratil joined Equity Bank in 2019 as Senior Vice President and was appointed CFO of the Bank in December 2022. During his time with Equity, he has played a key role in the Bank’s financial strategy, planning, and reporting functions, including balance sheet strategy and liquidity management. Navratil has also served as Equity’s Investor Relations Officer. Prior to joining Equity, he spent seven years with Crowe LLP in Chicago, working in the Financial Institution Audit Practice. Navratil holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from Northern Illinois University.
Eric Newell, who joined Equity as CFO in June 2020, will retain his responsibilities and leadership of Equity’s financial reporting and accounting teams until the filing of the company’s Second Quarter Form 10-Q to the Securities and Exchange Commission. He will then continue to assist in the transition of duties and responsibilities to Navratil until September 20, 2023.
Elliott acknowledged the contributions made by Eric Newell during his tenure at Equity, mentioning his role in building the company, its culture, and its teams. Newell’s departure serves as a testament to Equity’s ability to attract and develop top talent within the banking industry.
Equity Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for Equity Bank, which offers a comprehensive range of financial solutions, including commercial loans, consumer banking, mortgage loans, trust and wealth management services, and treasury management services. The company prides itself on delivering high-quality, relationship-based customer service while maintaining the essence of a community bank.
It is worth noting that the statements in this press release contain forward-looking statements, subject to risks, uncertainties, and changes in market conditions that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. Readers are cautioned to refer to the cautionary statements and risk factors outlined in Equity’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks involved.
For media inquiries, please contact John J. Hanley, Chief Marketing Officer at Equity Bancshares, Inc., or for investor inquiries, please contact Brian Katzfey, VP, Director of Corporate Development and Investor Relations.
