Fidelity Bank announces new CEO/President
New CEO carries on tradition of locally and family-owned bank
By DON WILBURN
donaldfwilburn@gmail.com
Fidelity Bank has announced a leadership change as longtime President and CEO Charles Horton prepares to retire. Stepping into the role is Kirby Carlson, a name that is already deeply connected to the bank’s history. Carlson, whose grandfather William Carlson was a founding director, has spent the past 18 years working in every department of the bank, with a strong focus on agriculture and commercial lending. Now,, he’s set to lead Fidelity into its next chapter.
“Charles brought a vast amount of banking and real-world knowledge to our bank. We are sincerely grateful for the growth under his guidance,” said Carlson, acknowledging Horton’s contributions.
Fidelity Bank has been a fixture in the region for 59 years, staying locally owned since the Carlson family purchased controlling interest in 1988. That move set the stage for the bank’s rapid growth and solidified its reputation as a true community bank. With more than 60 staff members,many of whom have been with the bank for over 20 years, Fidelity has built a culture that emphasizes relationships over numbers.
“Fidelity Bank’s mission has always been to help make eastern Arkansas a great place to live by obtaining a deep understanding of the banking needs in the neighborhoods and communities we serve,” Carlson explained. That commitment to community isn’t just professional for him—it’s personal. He and his family have planted roots on a Crittenden County farm, embracing the same
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The new CEO and president of Fidelity Bank, Kirby Carlson, says he plans to carry on the tradition of keeping Fidelity a locally and family owned bank.
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local values that have guided the bank for decades.
Under Carlson’s leadership, Fidelity remains strong, now exceeding $500 million in assets while maintaining solid pro_tability. And while banking trends may evolve, one thing won’t change: Fidelity Bank’s focus on personal connections. “It is not unusual for generations of family members to bank at Fidelity,” Fidelity said in a press release. “We truly recognize your face, not your money.”
That philosophy will continue as Carlson steps into his new role, ensuring that the legacy built by his grandfather, father, and predecessors lives on.
