First Community Bankshares Names Sarah Donley as New Executive Vice President and COO

First Community Bankshares Elevates Sarah Donley to Executive Leadership Role

First Community Bankshares announces the appointment of Sarah Donley as Executive Vice President and Chief Operations & Risk Officer, marking a significant leadership change as Tanya Butts retires after nearly a decade in the role. Donley, who has been with the bank since 1997 and has accumulated over 35 years of banking experience, takes the helm of critical operational areas including electronic banking, loan operations, IT, information security, compliance, and fraud management. Her deep institutional knowledge and extensive tenure at First Community position her uniquely to navigate the complexities of the banking industry, especially in a landscape increasingly defined by technological advancements and regulatory scrutiny.

As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Wittenberg University, Donley combines strong academic credentials with practical experience. Throughout her career at First Community, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the bank's mission and has played a crucial role in its operational success. In her new capacity, she will not only strengthen existing processes but also foster innovation within the bank's operations to enhance customer service and secure the institution against evolving risks. The emphasis on compliance and information security underscores the bank's proactive approach to safeguarding its clients' interests in a time of increasing cyber threats.

Ted Nissen, President and CEO of First Community Bank, expresses confidence in Donley’s ability to lead in her new role, highlighting her integral presence within the organization. He acknowledges the contributions of Tanya Butts, who will support the transition as Executive Vice President and Senior Advisor until the end of the first quarter of 2025. This transition reflects First Community Bank’s commitment to continuity while adapting to the changing demands of the financial services sector. As Donley steps into her new role, she also continues her active involvement in community initiatives, reinforcing the bank’s dedication to local engagement and support.

In addition to her professional qualifications, Sarah Donley’s involvement with organizations like the Midlands Reading Consortium and Palmetto Place showcases her commitment to community development. This dedication aligns with First Community Bank’s philosophy of not only providing financial services but also enhancing the quality of life in the regions they serve.

The leadership transition at First Community Bank signifies the bank's focus on operational excellence and risk management in a rapidly evolving industry, and it sets the stage for future innovation and community engagement under Donley's stewardship.