Equity Bancshares, the Wichita, KS-based holding company of Equity Bank, promoted Chris M. Navratil to CFO to replace Eric R. Newell, who decided to resign from the position.

“Our company considers entrepreneurial spirit one of our founding principles and core values,” Brad S. Elliott, chairman and CEO of Equity, said. “As a result, we’re a home to innovative thinkers, leaders and doers who can make an impact quickly and leave lasting results. We pride ourselves on recruiting and developing outstanding leaders. In this case, we’re fortunate to appoint Chris and leverage his strong financial acumen, leadership and experience.”

Navratil joined Equity Bank in 2019 as a senior vice president and was originally named CFO of the bank last December. During his time at Equity, Navratil has led the bank’s financial strategy, planning and reporting functions, including balance sheet strategy and liquidity management. Navratil has also served as Equity’s investor relations officer. Before joining Equity, Navratil spent seven years with Crowe in Chicago, within the financial institution audit practice.

Newell joined Equity as CFO in June of 2020. He will retain responsibility for and leadership of Equity’s financial reporting and accounting teams until the filing of Equity’s second quarter form 10-Q to the SEC. He will then work through Sept. 20 to assist in the transition of duties and responsibilities to Navratil.

“Our company is very fortunate to be a home for top talent within the banking industry who are afforded the opportunity to build lasting relationships with customers, team members and shareholders,” Elliott said. “Eric accomplished a great deal during his time at Equity, helping us build our company, culture and teams. He serves as an example of how we build and encourage entrepreneurial leaders to deliver for our investors, customers and colleagues.”