Jeff Thomas as Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer
Thomas’ experience adds strength to community banking mission
Charlestown, Ind. — NWSB is pleased to announce the hiring of Jeff Thomas as Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer. In this role, Thomas will focus on supporting local businesses and organizations through relationship-driven commercial lending, strategic financial solutions, and long-term partnership development across Southern Indiana.
“Jeff’s experience, leadership style, and deep understanding of relationship banking make him a natural fit for NWSB,” said Syd Whitlock, NWSB President. “He understands that strong banks are built on trust, consistency, and people who genuinely care about their customers and their communities.”
Thomas brings more than two decades of leadership experience in commercial banking, sales growth, credit strategy, and team development. Most recently, he served as a Vice President and Regional Sales Director overseeing Louisville and Southern Indiana, where he led multi-branch sales and service strategies across both commercial and retail segments with a strong emphasis on consistency, risk management, and client experience.
Earlier in his career, Thomas held senior executive and regional leadership roles focused on business development and commercial lending across Southern Indiana. As a member of executive leadership teams, he helped drive commercial loan and treasury growth, mentored high-performing teams, and contributed to enterprise-level strategy related to lending, deposits, and market expansion. He also served in progressive leadership roles, including Vice President and Branch Manager, Account Executive, and Business Banking Relationship Manager, building a strong foundation in relationship-based banking and operational excellence.
Throughout his career, Thomas has been recognized for building strong teams, growing commercial portfolios without sacrificing credit discipline, and maintaining a hands-on presence in the communities he serves. At NWSB, Thomas will work closely with business owners, nonprofits, and community leaders to provide thoughtful lending solutions and reinforce the bank’s commitment to personalized service and long-term relationships.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to join an organization that values community and relationships,” Thomas said. “It’s a privilege to be part of such a dedicated team, and I look forward to advancing NWSB’s mission of strengthening Southern Indiana through meaningful financial partnerships.”
Thomas holds a Master of Science in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Bellarmine University. He is active in the region, serving on the board of the Harrison County Community Foundation and coaching basketball at South Central Jr./Sr. High School. He is originally from Louisville, Ky., and has called Elizabeth, Ind., home for more than 24 years. Thomas and his wife, Jennifer, have three children, Clay, Cole, and Carlee. Outside of work, Thomas enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and being with family and friends.
About NWSB
NWSB (formerly known as New Washington State Bank) is a 100-year-old bank with approximately $750 million in total assets and over 100 employees. It also has 12 banking offices located in Southern Indiana.
