Branson Bank announces promotion of Joseph Cherek
Branson Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Joseph Cherek Jr. to Portfolio Officer and Government Loan Specialist. Cherek will manage the day-to-day operations of the Credit Department ensuring efficient loan underwriting, portfolio management, and serving as the point person for guaranteed loan processing. He is responsible for performing loan reviews, underwriting, maintaining regulatory compliance, and managing credit risk.

“Joe has played an instrumental role in shaping the credit department,” said Jon Arnold, VP, Finance and Risk Officer. “His commitment and expertise contributed to his promotion, and I look forward to seeing his continued impact, helping drive the bank’s success forward.”
Cherek received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska-Omaha with concentrations in Business Finance, Banking and Financial Systems, and Investment Portfolio Management. Since graduation, he has accumulated over 11 years in various banking roles to include teller, lead teller, and universal banker before joining the credit team at Branson Bank in 2019 as Portfolio Risk Manager.
Cherek recently attended the Lakes Area Leadership Academy, a program the Branson Chamber of Commerce and CVB facilitates to teach area leaders about Branson and the surrounding community. Cherek enjoys spending time with his family, going on walks, boating, fishing and collecting coins and vintage video games. He is married to Samantha, and together, they have a daughter, Joelle, and dog, Kody.
Table Rock Community Bank announces promotion of Nicole Essary to Branch Manager
Table Rock Community Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Nicole Essary to the position of Branch Manager of its Crane branch.

Nicole has over a decade of experience in the banking industry, having worked her way up from various roles including teller, new accounts and loan production. She joined Table Rock Community Bank in 2021 as a Loan Assistant and has since demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise.
Nicole is excited to take on her new role and continue serving the Crane community. "I am so excited to be back on the front line serving my community," says Nicole. "My goal is to always assist my customers, making each transaction a positive interaction." Her passion for helping customers and her deep understanding of the local community make her an ideal fit for this leadership role.
"We believe in the power of local decision-making and personalized service, and Nicole embodies these values perfectly," said Charles Hachtel, President and CEO of Table Rock Community Bank. "We are confident that under her leadership, the branch will continue to thrive and provide exceptional service to our community."
Nicole is a graduate of Crowder College where she obtained an associate’s degree in business administration. In addition to her professional achievements, Nicole enjoys spending time with her husband and three energetic boys, who keep her busy with their sporting events. When not at the ballfield or in the gym, the family loves to spend time on Table Rock Lake, hiking, camping and relaxing in the beautiful Ozarks.
BPJ Insurance announces new Employee Benefits Manager
BPJ Insurance, recently named the largest independent insurance agency in the area by Springfield Business Journal, is pleased to announce the promotion of Sarah Wehner to Employee Benefits Manager. With nearly 14 years of experience at BPJ, Wehner has demonstrated exceptional expertise in employee benefits and insurance management, making her an outstanding choice for this leadership role.
In her previous position as a customer service associate, Wehner was responsible for daily client account servicing, market analysis for new and renewal business, data management, and resolving complex benefit, claim and eligibility issues. Her deep understanding of the industry and commitment to client satisfaction have made her a vital asset to the company.
"I am honored to step into this role and continue supporting our clients in navigating the ever-changing landscape of employee benefits," said Wehner. "Building strong relationships and ensuring our clients receive the best possible solutions has always been my top priority."
Wehner holds a Missouri Life & Health Insurance License and will continue to focus on delivering exceptional service while enhancing BPJ’s benefits offerings.
Employee-owned Barker Phillips Jackson is the largest independent insurance agencies in Southwest Missouri. The firm has been headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, since 1960, with satellite locations in Rolla and West Plains.
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