First Community Bank is ushering in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Sarah Donley as the bank’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operations & Risk Officer. This marks a significant transition for the bank, as Donley takes over the reins from Tanya Butts, who is retiring after an impressive tenure of nearly a decade in the role.
Having been with First Community Bank for nearly 30 years, Donley brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and a robust banking background to her new position. Her journey with the bank began in 1997, and over the years, she has held key roles, most recently serving as the Controller. This deep-rooted experience gives her a unique vantage point on the bank’s operations, making her well-equipped to oversee the wide range of functions under her new responsibility, including electronic banking, deposit operations, loan operations, IT, information security, vendor management, audit, compliance, and fraud detection.
Her appointment is a strategic move for the bank, as she will be responsible for managing the crucial operational and risk management aspects that ensure smooth day-to-day functioning while safeguarding the bank against emerging risks and compliance challenges. Donley’s leadership will be instrumental in maintaining operational efficiency, enhancing security protocols, and navigating an increasingly complex financial landscape.
As the Chief Operations and Risk Officer, Donley will also be at the forefront of overseeing financial crime prevention (CFT/AML), facilities management, and physical security—key areas that play a vital role in the bank’s long-term success. In a time when digital banking and cybersecurity are more critical than ever, Donley’s expertise in these domains will serve as a cornerstone for First Community’s ongoing evolution and growth.
A Proven Leader with Vision
With over 35 years of banking experience, including 27 years at First Community, Donley’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication and her extensive knowledge of the bank’s inner workings. Her promotion reflects both her commitment and the trust the bank places in her leadership abilities. She’s more than just an executive—she’s a critical pillar of the bank’s success and future.
Donley’s educational credentials further bolster her qualifications for this role. A graduate of Wittenberg University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, she also holds a minor in Business Administration and Psychology, along with being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Her technical expertise combined with a deep understanding of human behavior in financial environments will help First Community Bank thrive in an increasingly interconnected and regulated financial landscape.
Donley’s leadership skills are further underscored by her active involvement in the community. She has been a financial supporter and volunteer for local organizations such as the Midlands Reading Consortium, Sole Stepping, and Palmetto Place, demonstrating her commitment to the region she serves.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for First Community Bank
For First Community Bank, this transition is more than just a change in leadership—it’s a sign of the bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation, stability, and growth. As the banking industry faces an ever-evolving landscape with heightened regulatory pressures, cybersecurity concerns, and the need for operational efficiency, Donley’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment. Her hands-on experience and deep understanding of the bank’s operations will ensure that First Community remains a trusted institution in the financial sector.
CEO Ted Nissen echoed these sentiments, stating, “Sarah has been an integral part of our team since joining the bank in 1997, and we are excited about the contributions she will continue to make as part of our Executive Leadership Team. Her passion for and dedication to the bank, along with her 27 years of institutional knowledge, have well prepared her for this important role. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to Tanya for her remarkable contributions to First Community over the past 8 years and her ongoing support as she transitions to Senior Advisor.”
The appointment also ensures continuity, as Tanya Butts will remain with the bank as Executive Vice President and Senior Advisor through the first quarter of 2025, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.
In short, Sarah Donley’s appointment as Chief Operations and Risk Officer isn’t just a promotion—it’s a strategic move that signals First Community Bank’s commitment to leadership continuity and its readiness to meet the challenges of the future head-on. With her expertise and vision, the bank is poised to continue its strong performance, navigate new opportunities, and address potential risks with confidence.
The future is bright for First Community Bank—and with Donley at the helm of operations and risk management, the bank is in strong hands.
