Ozona Bank has announced a leadership transition as Kelly Barclay assumes the role of chief executive officer to focus on steering the bank’s long-term vision and growth strategy. Joining the bank as its new president is Tommy Forsythe, a seasoned leader in community banking with more than 30 years of industry experience. He will also serve as an advisory director for the bank.

Forsythe brings a wealth of knowledge, a strong track record of leadership and a deep commitment to community-focused banking to his new position. Prior to joining Ozona Bank, he served as an executive vice president, SBA business line manager and regional president at Independent Financial in Cleburne. Overall, Forsythe was with Independent Financial and its predecessor banks for more than 27 years.

Forsythe earned his bachelor’s degree in banking and finance from Oklahoma Baptist University, as well as an MBA degree in finance from Dallas Baptist University. He also holds a master’s degree in banking from the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. Forsythe is active in the community, serving as group director of StoneWater Church, board member of the Greater Texas Capital Corp. and Johnson County Economic Development Corp., committee member of the National Association of Governement Guaranteed Lenders, special event coordinator for the Cleburne Education Foundation, sales committee chair of the Johnson County Livestock Association and treasurer of the Cleburne Athletic Booster Club.

“[Forsythe’s] leadership and experience will be instrumental as we continue to grow and strengthen our presence in the communities we serve,” Barclay says. “This transition reinforces our commitment to building lasting relationships with our customers, employees and stakeholders.”

Established in 1905, Ozona Bank has branches in Ozona, San Antonio, San Marcos and Wimberley.