Arkansas Bank CEO Nominated for National Community Banking Leadership Role

Jim Gowen Jr. of Merchants & Planters Bank in Newport selected for second term on ICBA board

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:55pm

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Jim Gowen Jr., the president and CEO of Merchants & Planters Bank in Newport, Arkansas, has been nominated for a second term on the board of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), a national trade group representing thousands of locally owned banks. Gowen was nominated to continue serving as chair of ICBA's Rural America and Agriculture Committee.

Why it matters

Gowen's nomination reflects the important role that community banks play in supporting local economies, particularly in rural areas and agricultural communities. His continued leadership on the ICBA board will help ensure that the concerns and interests of Arkansas community banks are represented at the national level.

The details

Gowen has served on multiple ICBA committees and previously served as a director and president of the Arkansas Community Bankers Association. In his role, he helps shape national policy positions and serves as a liaison between Arkansas community bankers and ICBA leadership in Washington, D.C.

  • Gowen was nominated for a second term on the ICBA board.
  • The current ICBA board is scheduled to vote on the nominations March 6-9, 2026 during ICBA LIVE 2026 in San Diego, California.

The players

Jim Gowen Jr.

The president and chief executive officer of Merchants & Planters Bank in Newport, Arkansas, who has been nominated for a second term on the board of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA).

Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA)

A national trade group representing community banks nationwide that advocates for policies affecting local financial institutions and their customers.

Rebeca Romero Rainey

The president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA).

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to be nominated to this position and hope to continue to represent my home state of Arkansas. It gives me a chance to advocate for community banks here and across the country that practice trusted, relationship-based lending to local consumers, small businesses, and the farmers and ag families whose work sustains our communities.”

— Jim Gowen Jr., President and CEO, Merchants & Planters Bank (whiterivernow.com)

“This year's nominees represent the strength and diversity of our industry, and the passionate and dedicated individuals that power local communities. We're honored by their commitment, and ICBA is eager to put their expertise to work in advancing the vital role of community banks, ensuring prosperity for neighborhoods across America while safeguarding a vibrant, resilient financial sector.”

— Rebeca Romero Rainey, President and CEO, Independent Community Bankers of America (whiterivernow.com)

What’s next

The current ICBA board is scheduled to vote on the nominations, including Gowen's, during ICBA LIVE 2026 in San Diego, California from March 6-9, 2026.

The takeaway

Gowen's nomination to the ICBA board reflects the important role that community banks like Merchants & Planters play in supporting local economies, particularly in rural and agricultural areas. His continued leadership will help ensure that the concerns and interests of Arkansas community banks are represented at the national level.