With a 135-year history of serving South Dakota customers, BankWest is positioning the company to remain in business for future generations. “For several years now, we’ve focused on strengthening our infrastructure and preparing a management succession plan to ensure BankWest is well positioned for the future,” said Charles H. Burke III, BankWest Chairman and CEO.
The BankWest Board of Directors reviewed the organization’s succession plan at its January board meeting and promoted Sherri Kelley to President of BankWest. Kelley’s promotion complements previous board activity regarding the bank’s long-term management plan, where Chief Operating Officer Bob Burke was named Vice Chairman of the Board. Charles H. Burke III will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board and CEO.
Kelley brings 40 years of bank experience, including 20 years with BankWest, to her new position. During her career, she has worked in multiple areas including credit administration, lending, loan review, compliance, mortgage, retail banking, and operations. She most recently served as President of Community Banking at BankWest.
“I’m honored to step into the role of President and take on the opportunity to forward BankWest’s commitment to the success of South Dakota families, businesses and communities,” Kelley said. “As bank President, I will work with Bob and our entire team to keep our services at the forefront and our operational foundation strong. BankWest is unique in today’s corporate environment in that not only is it locally owned, but also benefits from the stability of having a fifth generation of the Burke family on the leadership team.”
One of South Dakota’s oldest businesses, BankWest has stood the test of time by adapting to customer needs and expanding its footprint throughout the state. Most recently, it began construction on a new bank building in Madison and renovated a building for its new Spearfish branch. In addition to these locations, BankWest has full-service banks in Pierre, Kadoka, Kennebec, Winner, Onida, Selby, Gregory, Armour, Tripp, Geddes, Delmont, Mitchell, Colman, and Rapid City. BankWest also owns and operates 18 insurance agencies and 15 title companies throughout the state.
Charles H. Burke III.
Courtesy photo.
Bob Burke.
Courtesy photo.
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