First Independent Bank board elects new president,announces promotions

Earlier this year, the board of First Independent Bank elected Thomas Koerber as president. He has been serving as executive vice president and chief credit officer. He has been in banking since 1987, with First Independent since 2017 and served as chief credit officer of First Independent Bank’s sister Bank, Northview Bank from 2005-2017.

Koerber took over the president’s duties from Bruce Pogatchnik who will remain as CEO and board chairman.

In nominating Koerber as president, CEO Pogatchnik said “Tom has 35 years in banking, including managing several banks, a keen mind and tremendous work ethic. He is the right person to continue First Independent’s growth and success.”

The ownership of the bank remains in the Pogatchnik family along with its Employee ESOP ownership. The Pogatchnik family through Finlayson Bancshares has owned First Independent Bank since 1982.

Earlier this year, the board of First Independent Bank also announced several promotions.

Stanley Holmberg was named chief credit officer. Holmberg has been with First Independent Bank since 2006, serving as SVP business banker/market manager of First Independent Bank’s Marshall office. He has been in community banking over 35 years, with 30 of those being in the Marshall area.

Amberlee Thooft was named chief operating officer/cashier. Thooft started with First Independent Bank in 2003 as an intern. She will take over the chief operating officer duties from Kathy Neels who will remain as executive vice president/director.

Audie Sanderson was named chief compliance officer. Sanderson has been with First Independent Bank since 1985.

Mary Petersen was named vice president/ Human Resources. Petersen has been an integral part of First Independent Bank for the past 30 years.

Nelson promoted at North Star

Connie Nelson has been promoted to department manager for the Accounting department at North Star Mutual. She has worked for North Star since December of 2016 and most recently held the position of assistant department manager.