United Bank & Trust announces the upcoming retirement of President Robert Thomas later this year. Thomas will retire following 10 years of dedicated leadership at United Bank & Trust and a distinguished banking career spanning more than 40 years. Since joining the Bank, he has played an instrumental role in strengthening United Bank & Trust’s presence in the Marshalltown community while upholding its longstanding commitment to relationship-focused community banking.

“Over my 44-year banking career, a lot has changed in our industry–from technology and how customers access their accounts to the products and services we provide,” said Thomas. “But one thing that hasn’t changed is the importance of relationships. Building trust and helping customers, businesses and families succeed has always been the most rewarding part of banking. That’s the part I’ll miss the most in retirement.”

While retiring from his role as president, Thomas will remain actively involved as a member of the United Bank & Trust Board of Directors, where he will continue to share his experience and provide strategic guidance for the Bank’s future.

“Robert’s leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact across our organization and throughout the Marshalltown area,” said John Nelson, CEO of Ames National Corporation. “We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him all the best as he approaches retirement.”

To ensure a seamless transition, United Bank & Trust has hired Lance Lansing to serve as president upon Thomas’s retirement. Lansing brings community banking and financial services experience to the position. Most recently, he served as vice president of commercial lending at Apple River State Bank, where he managed and expanded loan portfolios while strengthening the bank’s business development efforts. Over the coming months, Lansing will work closely with Thomas to ensure a smooth transition and continued service excellence.

A retirement open house honoring Thomas will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on July 23 at United Bank & Trust, 2101 S. Center St., Marshalltown.