The Liberty-based The First Liberty Bank board of directors has elected Robert Messer to the board. He brings more than four decades of financial and executive leadership experience, having served as senior executive vice president/chief financial officer of the American National Bank of Texas prior to his retirement. At American National Bank, he was responsible for overseeing key corporate activities, including strategic planning and mergers and acquisitions. Throughout his career, Messer played a pivotal role in supporting longterm growth initiatives and strengthening the financial foundations of the institutions he served.

Messer holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and an MBA degree from East Texas State University. He is a graduate of the SW Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University, where he was elected president of his graduating class. He is also a certified public accountant licensed in the State of Texas. Messer has also served on advisory boards for banking programs at Sam Houston State University and Prairie View A&M University, and serves as a member of the Private Company Council, an advisory council to the Financial Accounting Standards Board. He has also held national leadership roles, including past national chair of the Risk Management Association.

“Robert Messer brings an exceptional depth of financial expertise, sound judgment and leadership experience to our board,” notes Charles McGuire, chairman. “His background and values align strongly with First Liberty Bank’s longstanding commitment to responsible governance and community-focused banking.”

“Robert’s extensive experience in financial strategy and risk management, combined with his dedication to community banking, will be a valuable asset to First Liberty Bank,” adds Kelly D. Stretcher, president and CEO.

Established in 1913, First Liberty Bank operates 11 locations, two loan/deposit production offices and a loan production office.