First Financial Bankshares Inc. Announces Key Leadership Appointments in Greater Houston
April 20, 2026 - In a significant move aimed at reinforcing its strategic position in the rapidly growing Greater Houston market, First Financial Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FFIN) has announced key leadership appointments within its subsidiary, First Financial Bank. The Board of Directors has elected Rodney Nabors as the Regional CEO for the Greater Houston Region, while promoting Bart Griffith to Conroe Market President and Brian Bonner to Executive Vice President, Senior Lender for Construction and Development.
1. Enhancing Regional Leadership
David Bailey, President and CEO of First Financial Bank, emphasized the importance of these appointments in a statement, asserting that they reflect the bank's ongoing commitment to enhancing its regional management team. "These leadership appointments demonstrate the Bank's ongoing commitment to enhancing our regional management team to capitalize on the significant opportunities present in this high-growth market in Texas," Bailey noted.
The leadership trio brings a wealth of experience and deep-rooted community ties that are expected to strengthen the bank's presence and client support in Greater Houston, a competitive banking environment that presents both challenges and opportunities.
2. Meet the New Leaders
Rodney E. Nabors - Regional CEO
Rodney Nabors has been elected as the Regional CEO, bringing over 37 years of experience in commercial banking. His extensive background includes leadership roles in various banking organizations, where he successfully navigated growth and transformation amid changing market conditions. Nabors previously served as President of Agility Bank in Houston, and his career is marked by senior executive and market leadership positions across regional and community banks.
In his new role, Nabors will oversee the bank's regional strategy, performance, and market expansion in Houston, a city known for its vibrant economy. His commitment to community engagement is evident through his leadership roles in local nonprofit organizations, including the Houston West Chamber of Commerce.
Bart Griffith - Conroe Market President
Bart Griffith, with over 35 years of banking experience, has been promoted to Conroe Market President, where he will manage strategy, performance, and oversight of the Montgomery and Walker County markets. Griffith joined First Bank of Conroe in 2012 and has since become a key member of the Greater Houston leadership team.
His strong client relationships and market knowledge are assets that he will leverage to continue the bank's growth in this dynamic division. Griffith's community involvement includes board positions with The Woodlands Economic Development Partnership and the Texas Bankers Association's Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
Brian Bonner - Executive Vice President, Senior Lender for Construction and Development
Brian Bonner brings over 20 years of real estate lending experience to his new role as Executive Vice President and Senior Lender for Construction and Development. Since starting his banking career in 2006, Bonner has significantly contributed to the growth of the region's construction and development lending efforts.
His previous positions include Senior Vice President of Real Estate Lending at Commercial State Bank, which was later acquired by First Financial Bank. Bonner is also active in the community, serving on the Greater Houston Builders Association and various committees at Declaration Church in Spring, showcasing his commitment to community development.
3. A Robust Future Ahead
These strategic appointments come at a time when First Financial Bank is poised to expand its footprint in one of the most promising banking markets in the country. With a diverse portfolio of services and a commitment to community engagement, the bank aims to leverage the extensive experience of its new leadership team to enhance customer service and market competitiveness.
First Financial Bank, headquartered in Abilene, Texas, operates through multiple banking regions with 79 locations across Texas. The company's commitment to growth and community engagement is evident in its strategic decisions, such as the recent leadership changes.
As First Financial Bank continues to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape, the appointments of Nabors, Griffith, and Bonner signal a proactive approach to leadership that aims to not only meet the needs of clients but also contribute to the broader economic development of the Greater Houston area.