Bancfirst Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bancfirst has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, commercial lending, and regional market management.

Committed to regional financial stability, Bancfirst delivers comprehensive banking solutions to individuals and businesses across Oklahoma through a philosophy centered on local decision-making and long-term client relationships.

Leadership Roles at Bancfirst

  • Chief Executive Officer - Darryl Schmidt
  • Senior Vice- President - Heather Nickell
  • President - Natalie Cole
  • President (Tulsa) - Tanner Eckler
  • Regional Executive & President, Market - Mark Brace
  • President - Theresa Brown
  • President - Steven Burrus
  • Division President, Trust & Investment Management - James Dickson
  • President-BancFirst Commercial Capital - Jeff DeSpain
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer - David Westman
  • Darryl Schmidt - Chief Executive Officer

    Darryl Schmidt, the Chief Executive Officer at Bancfirst, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational performance of the organization. Schmidt oversees the alignment of financial products with the needs of Oklahoma businesses and individuals. By managing the executive team, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent growth and adherence to the core mission of providing accessible banking services. Darryl Schmidt maintains a focus on long-term stability while navigating the complexities of the state-chartered banking landscape. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to maintain a competitive edge within the regional finance sector. Through rigorous oversight of capital allocation and risk management, the Chief Executive Officer drives the institution toward sustainable profitability. Ultimately, Schmidt secures the future of the bank by fostering a culture of excellence and community-focused service that defines the operational identity of the entire organization.

    Heather Nickell - Senior Vice- President

    Heather Nickell, the Senior Vice- President at Bancfirst, manages critical administrative functions and operational workflows that sustain the bank's daily activities. Nickell oversees the execution of internal policies to ensure compliance and efficiency across various departments. The Senior Vice- President drives organizational alignment by coordinating efforts between branch operations and corporate headquarters. Heather Nickell monitors performance metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement and resource optimization. By facilitating communication across the leadership team, the Senior Vice- President ensures that all operational initiatives support the overarching mission of providing high-quality financial services to the Oklahoma community. This role involves managing complex projects that enhance the overall customer experience and operational resilience. Through diligent oversight of daily business functions, Nickell contributes to the stability and growth of the institution, ensuring that every department operates in harmony with the strategic objectives established by the executive leadership.

    Natalie Cole - President

    Natalie Cole, the President at Bancfirst, directs the core banking operations and retail service initiatives that define the institution's market presence. Cole oversees the development of consumer-focused financial products designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals throughout Oklahoma. The President drives growth by expanding the reach of retail banking services and fostering strong relationships with local clients. Natalie Cole collaborates with the executive team to refine service delivery models and ensure that the bank remains responsive to changing economic conditions. By managing branch performance and customer satisfaction metrics, the President ensures that the organization maintains its reputation for excellence and community engagement. This leadership role involves balancing operational efficiency with the personalized service that characterizes the bank's business model. Through strategic planning and execution, Cole strengthens the market position of the institution, ensuring that retail banking operations remain a primary driver of long-term success.

    Tanner Eckler - President (Tulsa)

    Tanner Eckler, the President (Tulsa) at Bancfirst, directs all banking activities and market expansion efforts within the Tulsa region. Eckler oversees the local lending portfolio and business development strategies tailored to the specific economic landscape of this key territory. The President (Tulsa) drives regional growth by cultivating partnerships with local enterprises and individual clients. Tanner Eckler ensures that the bank's financial products are effectively deployed to support the economic vitality of the area. By managing the local team and overseeing branch operations, the President (Tulsa) maintains high standards of service and operational excellence. This role involves deep engagement with the local business community to identify emerging opportunities and address unique financial challenges. Through strategic leadership and a focus on regional market penetration, Eckler ensures that the bank remains a dominant and trusted financial partner for the residents and businesses of the Tulsa area.

    Mark Brace - Regional Executive & President, Market

    Mark Brace, the Regional Executive & President, Market at Bancfirst, architects the strategic approach for specific geographic markets to maximize operational impact. Brace oversees the coordination of regional resources and ensures that local banking initiatives align with the broader corporate strategy. The Regional Executive & President, Market drives business development by identifying key growth sectors and fostering relationships with high-value clients. Mark Brace manages the performance of regional teams to ensure consistent service delivery and operational efficiency. By analyzing market data and economic trends, the Regional Executive & President, Market adapts service offerings to meet the specific needs of the assigned territory. This role involves close collaboration with other executives to ensure that regional efforts contribute effectively to the overall success of the bank. Through proactive leadership and a focus on market-specific solutions, Brace strengthens the competitive position of the institution across its operational footprint.
    Mark Brace

    Theresa Brown - President

    Theresa Brown, the President at Bancfirst, directs the specialized lending and credit management functions that support the bank's diverse portfolio. Brown oversees the underwriting processes and risk assessment protocols to ensure the health of the loan book. The President drives financial stability by implementing rigorous credit standards and monitoring portfolio performance across various sectors. Theresa Brown collaborates with the executive team to develop lending strategies that balance growth with prudent risk management. By managing the credit department, the President ensures that the bank provides necessary capital to businesses and individuals while maintaining a strong balance sheet. This role involves constant evaluation of credit quality and market conditions to mitigate potential losses. Through strategic oversight of lending operations, Brown supports the bank's mission of providing reliable financial services, ensuring that credit products remain accessible and sustainable for the diverse client base served by the institution.
    Theresa Brown

    Steven Burrus - President

    Steven Burrus, the President at Bancfirst, directs the strategic initiatives related to wealth management and private banking services. Burrus oversees the development of investment solutions and financial planning tools tailored to the needs of high-net-worth individuals. The President drives the growth of the wealth management division by expanding the client base and enhancing the quality of advisory services. Steven Burrus collaborates with other senior leaders to ensure that wealth management strategies are integrated with the broader financial offerings of the bank. By managing the advisory team, the President ensures that clients receive personalized guidance and superior service. This role involves monitoring market performance and adjusting investment strategies to protect and grow client assets. Through a focus on long-term wealth preservation and strategic financial planning, Burrus strengthens the bank's reputation as a premier provider of comprehensive financial services for individuals seeking sophisticated wealth management solutions.

    James Dickson - Division President, Trust & Investment Management

    James Dickson, the Division President, Trust & Investment Management at Bancfirst, directs the fiduciary services and investment management operations of the bank. Dickson oversees the administration of trusts and the management of investment portfolios to ensure compliance with legal and financial standards. The Division President, Trust & Investment Management drives the performance of the trust division by implementing sound investment strategies that align with client objectives. James Dickson collaborates with legal and financial experts to provide comprehensive estate planning and asset management services. By managing the trust team, the Division President, Trust & Investment Management ensures that all fiduciary responsibilities are met with the highest level of integrity and professionalism. This role involves navigating complex regulatory environments to protect client interests and ensure the long-term growth of managed assets. Through strategic leadership, Dickson maintains the bank's standing as a trusted partner for complex financial and estate management needs.

    Jeff DeSpain - President-BancFirst Commercial Capital

    Jeff DeSpain, the President-BancFirst Commercial Capital at Bancfirst, directs the specialized commercial lending and equipment finance operations. DeSpain oversees the development of capital solutions designed to support the growth and operational needs of businesses across the region. The President-BancFirst Commercial Capital drives the expansion of the commercial lending portfolio by identifying new market opportunities and building strong relationships with corporate clients. Jeff DeSpain collaborates with the executive team to ensure that commercial capital products are competitive and aligned with the bank's risk appetite. By managing the commercial lending team, the President-BancFirst Commercial Capital ensures that businesses receive the financial support necessary for expansion and infrastructure development. This role involves analyzing business creditworthiness and structuring complex financing deals to meet the specific requirements of corporate borrowers. Through strategic focus on commercial capital, DeSpain contributes significantly to the economic development of the region and the overall growth of the bank.

    David Westman - Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    David Westman, the Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Bancfirst, architects the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting all banking operations. Westman manages the integration of secure financial systems to protect client data while enhancing service delivery across the Oklahoma market. The Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer drives innovation by implementing advanced software solutions that streamline internal processes and improve customer accessibility. David Westman collaborates with other senior leaders to ensure that technological investments align with the broader strategic goals of the bank. By overseeing the cybersecurity posture and network reliability, the Chief Information Officer mitigates operational risks and maintains the integrity of financial transactions. This role requires constant adaptation to the evolving digital landscape to ensure that the bank remains at the forefront of financial technology, ultimately supporting the efficiency and security of every client interaction.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bancfirst Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bancfirst?
    Bancfirst is led by Darryl Schmidt (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Heather Nickell (Senior Vice- President) and Natalie Cole (President).
    Who is part of Bancfirst’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bancfirst includes leaders such as Darryl Schmidt (Chief Executive Officer), Heather Nickell (Senior Vice- President), Natalie Cole (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bancfirst have?
    Bancfirst has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bancfirst’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bancfirst includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice- President, President, President (Tulsa), Regional Executive & President, Market.