The First Security Bank & Trust, a cornerstone of the Charles City community, has officially announced a significant leadership transition. The board of directors has elected Kurt Herbrechtsmeyer as the new chairman of the board, and Brad Miller has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer. These changes, effective January 1st, signal a strategic evolution for the institution while maintaining its deep-rooted commitment to the community.
Brad Miller, previously the bank’s Chief Financial Officer since 2021, will not only assume his new executive roles but also join the bank’s board of directors. His ascent to CEO reflects the bank’s confidence in his vision and expertise to lead First Security Bank Charles City into the future.
Brad Miller appointed as President and CEO of First Security Bank Charles City, marking a new chapter in the bank's leadership.
Miller’s background provides a robust foundation for his new position at First Security Bank Charles City. Raised in Wichita, Kansas, with ancestral ties to Iowa dating back to 1852, Miller brings a blend of Midwestern values and extensive financial acumen. He emphasizes the welcoming nature of the Charles City community and the bank’s dedication to local prosperity as key reasons for his commitment.
“The people here are kind and go the extra mile to help each other,” Miller stated. “That’s one reason First Security interested me when I started here nearly three years ago. The bank and its staff aim to support and improve the communities we serve.”
His qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration from the University of Kansas, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Washburn University. Further solidifying his expertise, Miller has earned the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst Institute designation and is an active member of the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts. His career spans over three decades in public accounting, institutional investment management, and community-focused financial institutions, preparing him comprehensively for this leadership role at First Security Bank Charles City.
“My career has been in banking and financial services for over 30 years. I’ve been doing a lot of things over those decades to prepare for a role like this,” Miller reflected. “It’s an honor and I appreciate the trust that Kurt and the board of directors have placed in me. There is a strong 120-year legacy at First Security, and I look forward to building on that.”
The legacy of First Security Bank Charles City is deeply intertwined with the Herbrechtsmeyer family. For over a century, a member of the Herbrechtsmeyer family has been an integral part of the bank, navigating through significant historical events including the Great Depression, the Charles City tornado, and numerous economic shifts. This enduring presence underscores the bank’s stability and long-term commitment to Charles City and its surrounding communities.
Looking ahead, Miller acknowledges the rapid evolution of the banking industry. “We are in an industry that is evolving at a revolutionary pace,” Miller noted. “Traditionally, First Security has kept ahead of that pace.” He plans to ensure First Security Bank Charles City remains at the forefront by embracing innovation while maintaining its core values of community support and personalized service.
To further connect with the community, Miller has relocated his office to the main level of the bank at 809 Clark Street in Charles City. He also intends to visit each of the ten communities served by First Security branches, reinforcing the bank’s regional presence and commitment.
Kurt Herbrechtsmeyer, who served as President and CEO for nearly two decades, will transition to Chairman of the Board. This move allows him to focus on holding company business, shareholder relations, and provide guidance during Miller’s transition.
“There’s plenty to do,” Herbrechtsmeyer commented. “I will be working more on holding company business and shareholder relations, and I will also be available as Brad transitions into his role as CEO and president.”
First Security Bank Charles City invites the community to a Member Mingle event (formerly Business After Hours) on Monday, February 12, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Tellurian Brewing. This event will provide an opportunity to meet Miller, Herbrechtsmeyer, and other First Security leadership, and learn more about the bank’s future direction under this new leadership.
