Two Idaho financial institutions announce leadership changes

A Boise-based bank and an eastern Idaho credit union have each named new leaders in recent weeks as both institutions look to build on current growth momentum.

Northwest places Kim in charge of Idaho market

Northwest Bank has hired Guy Kim as president of its Idaho Division, bringing more than two decades of commercial banking experience from JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo to the Boise-based institution.

Kim most recently served as executive director within the commercial and specialized industries group at JPMorgan Chase. Earlier in his career, he spent more than a decade at Wells Fargo in increasingly senior commercial banking roles, leading business banking teams across the Pacific Northwest.

“Guy’s dedication to commercial banking, his clients and his teams is a tremendous fit for Northwest Bank and our mission,” said Kyle Leyendecker, president and chief operations officer of Northwest Bank. “We’re confident that his deep understanding of customized commercial banking will support operational efficiencies and growth opportunities for our clients across the state and the bank.”

Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Boise State University and an MBA from Chapman University. He is also a certified treasury professional and serves on the board of trustees for Riverstone International School in Boise, where he is board treasurer.

Northwest Bank was founded in Boise in 2008 and serves small and midsize companies, professionals and nonprofit organizations through branch locations in Idaho, Oregon, Washington and Utah.

Westmark names Nielsen as president and CEO

Westmark Credit Union has named Derik Nielsen as president and CEO, effective July 27, succeeding Mike Schenck, who served the credit union and its members for more than 30 years.

Nielsen is a familiar face at Westmark, having served on its board of directors for nearly a decade before taking the top executive role. He brings experience in finance, operations, technology and strategic planning.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve as Westmark’s next CEO,” Nielsen said. “Westmark has an exceptional team, a strong culture, and a clear vision for the future. My priority is to support our employees, continue delivering outstanding service to our members, and build on the incredible momentum underway throughout the organization.”

Westmark is currently advancing several initiatives, including a partnership with Boise State University, branch remodels, new exterior branding across its branch network and enhancements to consumer and business banking products.

“Selecting the chief executive officer is one of the board’s most important responsibilities,” said Board Chair Steve Hammon. “We have great confidence in his leadership and his ability to build on the strong foundation that has been established.”

Founded in 1954, Westmark serves members throughout Idaho with personal and business financial services.

This story was written using artificial intelligence with human oversight.