First Interstate Bank's Eastern Montana Region President, Keith D. Cook, today announced his retirement, effective August 1, 2016, after nearly 32 years with the company. “I would like to thank First Interstate Bank, the leadership teams, and especially, the Scott Family, for believing in me and giving me the opportunities I have enjoyed at this great company,” stated Mr. Cook. “The Scott Family has built an extraordinary culture at First Interstate. I feel as if I am leaving a family rather than retiring from a company. I will miss everyone and will never be able to thank them enough for standing by me throughout the years.”
Mr. Cook further stated he will always be an advocate for First Interstate. “This is an exciting time for First Interstate. This company is full of intelligent, enthusiastic, loyal and committed employees who are going to help take the organization to new levels of growth and prosperity. I will continue to support First Interstate in any way that I can.”
Since 2003, Mr. Cook has served as President of First Interstate's Eastern Montana Region, with oversight of the bank's branch operations in Billings, Absarokee, Columbus, Laurel, Hardin, Colstrip, Lame Deer and Miles City. He was first hired in November of 1984 and became President of the Billings Bank in 1994.
Committed to community service, Mr. Cook has served on the Board of Directors for many local organizations including the Billings Clinic, Billings Clinic Foundation, United Way, Montana State University Foundation, Montana State University Billings Alumni Association, Billings Area Chamber of Commerce, Family Services, Eagle Mount, and the Boys & Girls Club of Yellowstone County.
First Interstate BancSystem Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer, Bill Gottwals, recognized Mr. Cook's many years of service. “Under Keith's leadership, the Billings market has grown to become the largest and one of the most successful markets in our franchise,” stated Mr. Gottwals. “He has made significant contributions to not only First Interstate Bank but to the Billings community as well. We wish him well in his retirement and sincerely thank him for all he has done for our company, our customers, and our community.”