HBT Financial Adds Banking Veteran to Board of Directors

Michael J. Morton, former BMO and MB Financial executive, joins HBT Financial's board.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 11:05am

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HBT Financial, Inc., the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, has appointed Michael J. Morton to its Board of Directors, effective April 1, 2026. Morton brings nearly 40 years of banking experience, having previously served as Vice Chair of U.S. Commercial Banking at Bank of Montreal and as Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of MB Financial.

Why it matters

The addition of Morton, an experienced banking executive, to HBT Financial's board signals the company's commitment to growth and strong governance as it continues to expand the Heartland Bank franchise across Illinois, eastern Iowa, and suburban St. Louis.

The details

Morton will serve an initial term on the HBT Financial and Heartland Bank boards that will expire at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, at which point he will be eligible for re-election. In his most recent role, Morton was responsible for staff development and risk oversight across multiple states and offices at BMO.

  • Morton's appointment to the HBT Financial and Heartland Bank boards will be effective as of April 1, 2026.
  • Morton's initial term will expire at the HBT Financial 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

The players

HBT Financial, Inc.

The holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, with banking roots dating back to 1920 and providing financial products and services throughout Illinois, eastern Iowa, and suburban St. Louis.

Michael J. Morton

A banking veteran with nearly 40 years of experience, most recently serving as Vice Chair of U.S. Commercial Banking at Bank of Montreal and as Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of MB Financial.

Fred L. Drake

Executive Chairman of HBT Financial, who welcomed Morton to the board and expressed confidence in his guidance and contributions to the company's growth.

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What they’re saying

“We would like to welcome Mike to our Board of Directors. Mike's extensive banking background and proven leadership will be a tremendous asset, and we look forward to his guidance and contributions as we continue to grow the Heartland Bank franchise.”

— Fred L. Drake, Executive Chairman

What’s next

Morton's initial term on the HBT Financial and Heartland Bank boards will be up for re-election at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

The takeaway

HBT Financial's addition of an experienced banking executive like Michael J. Morton to its board signals the company's commitment to strong governance and continued growth as it expands its Heartland Bank franchise across the Midwest.