Equity Bank Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Equity Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, and market operations.

Driven by a commitment to community growth, Equity Bank provides comprehensive financial solutions, fostering economic development through personalized banking services and robust business financing.

Leadership Roles at Equity Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Richard Sems
  • Chief Executive Officer & Owner - Ken Fergeson
  • Owner & Chief Executive Officer - Jason McDowell
  • Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Ngari
  • President, Market (3845 (660)) - Sue Hook
  • Community Market President - Terry Thompson
  • Market President - Bradley Johnson
  • Chief Information Officer - Kwame Aduansere
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Ann Knutson
  • Presidentchief Executive Officer - Deborah Harris
  • Richard Sems - Chief Executive Officer

    Richard Sems, the Chief Executive Officer at Equity Bank, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Sems guides the company's expansion into new markets and oversees the development of innovative banking products that meet evolving customer needs. This leadership involves ensuring robust financial performance and maintaining the bank's strong reputation within the finance industry. Richard Sems drives initiatives focused on enhancing customer experience across all service channels, from digital platforms to in-person interactions. The Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in aligning departmental goals with the bank's mission of supporting economic prosperity through accessible financial services. Sems also fosters key relationships with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and community leaders, to ensure sustained growth and compliance.

    Ken Fergeson - Chief Executive Officer & Owner

    Ken Fergeson, the Chief Executive Officer & Owner at Equity Bank, shapes the foundational strategy and ownership direction for the institution. Fergeson's leadership encompasses defining the long-term trajectory of the bank, ensuring its financial health and market relevance. This role involves significant decision-making regarding capital allocation and strategic partnerships that bolster the bank's service offerings. Ken Fergeson champions a culture of integrity and customer-centricity, integral to the bank's operational ethos. The Chief Executive Officer & Owner's purview extends to overseeing major investment decisions and ensuring the bank's continued ability to provide essential financial services like home loans and business financing. Fergeson's influence is key to maintaining Equity Bank's position as a trusted financial partner.

    Jason McDowell - Owner & Chief Executive Officer

    Jason McDowell, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Equity Bank, spearheads the strategic direction and ownership responsibilities for the financial institution. McDowell's mandate includes driving growth through innovative service delivery and maintaining the bank's commitment to its core values. This position involves critical oversight of the bank's financial health and its capacity to serve diverse client needs, from personal checking accounts to complex commercial loans. Jason McDowell focuses on enhancing operational efficiencies and expanding the bank's reach within its service areas. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer's leadership ensures that Equity Bank remains a pillar of financial support for individuals and businesses alike. McDowell's strategic insights are vital for navigating the dynamic financial landscape and securing the bank's future success.

    Joseph Ngari - Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Ngari, the Chief Financial Officer at Equity Bank, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Ngari oversees all aspects of financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital management, ensuring the bank's stability and profitability. This role is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and supporting the bank's expansion initiatives through sound financial stewardship. Joseph Ngari directs the analysis of financial data to identify opportunities for cost optimization and revenue enhancement across all banking services, from home loans to commercial lending. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in navigating complex financial markets and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Ngari's strategic financial insights underpin Equity Bank's capacity to offer competitive products and services.

    Sue Hook - President, Market (3845 (660))

    Sue Hook, the President, Market (3845 (660)) at Equity Bank, directs market-specific strategies and operational oversight within designated regions. Hook's leadership focuses on driving business growth and enhancing customer relationships through localized banking solutions. This role involves managing market performance, ensuring alignment with the bank's broader objectives for services like home loans and business financing. Sue Hook oversees the development and execution of market-centric initiatives designed to expand the bank's presence and deepen community engagement. The President, Market's responsibilities include leading regional teams to achieve sales targets and deliver superior customer service. Hook's strategic market focus is essential for Equity Bank's localized success and overall expansion.

    Terry Thompson - Community Market President

    Terry Thompson, the Community Market President at Equity Bank, spearheads market-specific growth and client engagement strategies. Thompson's leadership emphasizes building strong relationships within the community to drive adoption of the bank's diverse financial products, including checking, savings, and commercial loans. This position involves overseeing market operations to ensure seamless service delivery and client satisfaction. Terry Thompson focuses on identifying and capitalizing on local economic opportunities, tailoring banking solutions to meet the unique needs of businesses and individuals in the region. The Community Market President's role is vital for reinforcing Equity Bank's commitment to local economic development and fostering trust. Thompson's dedication to community banking strengthens the bank's regional footprint.

    Bradley Johnson - Market President

    Bradley Johnson, the Market President at Equity Bank, leads strategic initiatives and operational management within a specific market territory. Johnson's focus is on driving revenue growth and expanding the bank's client base by delivering tailored financial services, such as business financing and investment solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of local market dynamics and customer needs to ensure effective service delivery. Bradley Johnson oversees regional teams, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability to achieve performance objectives. The Market President's responsibilities include developing and implementing strategies that enhance Equity Bank's competitive position and client loyalty. Johnson's leadership ensures robust market penetration and sustained business development.

    Kwame Aduansere - Chief Information Officer

    Kwame Aduansere, the Chief Information Officer at Equity Bank, directs the bank's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. Aduansere is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of secure, scalable IT infrastructure that supports all banking operations, including online banking and internal systems. This leadership role ensures that the bank leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Kwame Aduansere champions innovation in digital platforms, aiming to provide seamless access to services like checking, savings, and business financing. The Chief Information Officer's focus extends to cybersecurity, safeguarding sensitive customer data and maintaining the integrity of the bank's digital assets. Aduansere's vision is critical for Equity Bank's continued technological advancement.

    Ann Knutson - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Ann Knutson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Equity Bank, leads the strategic management of the bank's workforce and organizational development. Knutson oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a motivated and skilled team to support Equity Bank's mission. This role is fundamental in cultivating a positive and productive work environment that aligns with the bank's values and strategic goals. Ann Knutson drives initiatives focused on employee engagement, professional development, and fostering a diverse and inclusive culture across all departments, from lending to customer service. The Chief Human Resources Officer's influence is key to attracting and retaining top talent necessary for delivering exceptional banking services. Knutson's leadership ensures that Equity Bank's human capital is a strategic asset.

    Deborah Harris - Presidentchief Executive Officer

    Deborah Harris, the Presidentchief Executive Officer at Equity Bank, leads the executive team in executing the bank's strategic objectives and operational mandates. Harris's responsibilities include fostering a high-performance culture and ensuring the delivery of exceptional banking services across all segments. This role demands a keen understanding of market dynamics and regulatory environments to guide the bank's growth and stability. Deborah Harris oversees the integration of advanced technologies to improve online banking capabilities and streamline business financing processes. The Presidentchief Executive Officer's focus is on driving profitability while upholding the bank's mission to empower its customers financially. Harris's leadership ensures that Equity Bank consistently meets the diverse financial needs of its community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Equity Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Equity Bank?
    Equity Bank is led by Richard Sems (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ken Fergeson (Chief Executive Officer & Owner) and Jason McDowell (Owner & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Equity Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of Equity Bank includes leaders such as Richard Sems (Chief Executive Officer), Ken Fergeson (Chief Executive Officer & Owner), Jason McDowell (Owner & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Equity Bank have?
    Equity Bank has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Equity Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Equity Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Owner, Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Market (3845 (660)).