First Interstate Bank Introduces Iowa and Missouri Banking Leadership Team

First Interstate Bank Introduces Iowa and Missouri Banking Leadership Team

DES MOINES, Iowa—February 11, 2026—First Interstate has a refreshed Iowa and Missouri leadership team designed to bring decisions closer to clients and faster response times tailored to local needs. The new approach aligns market leaders and empowered bankers across Iowa and Missouri who know their communities and can act quickly in their best interest. 
  
“Our purpose is simple — build strong teams that build strong client relationships,” said Chris Shepler, Chief Banking Officer. “When bankers are supported, clients feel understood, and communities move forward in a sustainable way.” 
  
Introducing First Interstate's Iowa and Missouri Leadership Team 
  • Jim Miller, State President — Iowa and Missouri — With over three years at First Interstate, Jim focuses on helping our teams show up every day for clients and communities, ensuring they have the tools and resources to deliver all our capabilities. He also stays active in the community through board service focused on financial education and economic development. 
  • John Jennett, State President — Iowa and Missouri — Approaching 14 years with First Interstate, John supports teams as they help clients achieve financial success by serving as trusted financial advisors. 
  • Steven Frederick, Commercial Market President — Recently joining First Interstate, Steven leads the market’s commercial banking strategy, helping businesses expand and access tailored solutions. 
  • Zach Bohannon, Commercial Market President — With three years at First Interstate, Zach supports bankers who provide capital and service solutions for local businesses. 
  • Sandy Pierschbacher, Commercial Market President — Southwest Iowa/Southern Iowa/Missouri — Celebrating 26 years with First Interstate, Sandy partners with clients—including those growing farm and ranch operations—to help move their businesses forward and plan ahead. 
  • Michael Larson, Commercial Market President — North Central Iowa — With over four years at First Interstate, Mike measures success by the quality of relationships across team members, clients, and community partners. 
  • Evan Schrieber, Community Banking Market Leader — A 12-year First Interstate leader, Evan coaches managers, removes obstacles, and helps branches deliver personal, trustworthy banking that strengthens client and community relationships. 
  • Shannon Weaklen, Community Banking Market Leader — Eastern Iowa — With a cumulative 12 years in banking with Great Western Bank and First Interstate, Shannon leads teams focused on building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional experiences. 
  • Jessica Travis, Community Banking Market Leader — Southwest Iowa — With six years at First Interstate, Jessica partners with branches to grow business, help clients achieve financial success, and make a positive impact in southwest Iowa. 
  • Kandra Powell, Community Banking Market Leader — Central Iowa — New to First Interstate, Kandra develops teams by driving a strong service culture and coaching branch employees to deliver exceptional experiences while maintaining operational excellence. 
  • Sarah Swanson, Community Banking Market Leader — North Central Iowa — With 21 years at First Interstate, Sarah supports 11 offices in delivering exceptional service and growing relationships in the communities they serve. 

With leaders embedded in local markets, and connected across the region, First Interstate brings clients the benefits of a relationship‑driven community bank paired with the capabilities of a larger institution, including Wealth Management. Call First Interstate today to see how the bank can assist you.

About First Interstate
First Interstate is a community bank headquartered in Billings, Montana, delivering best-in-class banking and Wealth Management services across Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming. With nearly 300 offices, First Interstate enhances the communities it serves through an innovative corporate philanthropy program, which includes donating a portion of Company profits, matching employees’ personal financial contributions, and donating $10 per hour for volunteer efforts made at qualifying organizations. To learn more, please visit www.firstinterstate.com.
Powered By GrowthZone