First Western Financial Adds Alex McDougall as Arizona Regional President

First Western Financial Welcomes Alex McDougall as Arizona Regional President

In a significant move to bolster its leadership in Arizona, First Western Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: MYFW) has appointed Alex McDougall as the new Regional President for its Arizona offices. McDougall's extensive background in private banking and wealth management, coupled with his dedication to community engagement, positions him as a valuable asset to the organization.

With over 18 years in the financial services sector, Alex brings a wealth of experience from notable institutions such as JPMorgan and First Republic Bank. At JPMorgan, he held the role of Managing Director, while at First Republic Bank he served as Regional Managing Director, where he notably launched the Jackson Hole, WY market. This initiative not only saw the highest growth in the firm’s history in deposits and market share but also made him the youngest individual to achieve the position of Regional Managing Director at that company.

Throughout his career, McDougall has garnered various industry honors, including the prestigious President's Circle Award and recognition for top contributions to the banking sector. His ability to foster a positive client experience was reflected in his management of the firm’s leading market for client satisfaction, indicated by the highest net promoter score (NPS). This record of success showcases his focus on delivering exceptional client services and fostering strong business growth.

Reflecting on his new role, Alex expressed his enthusiasm for joining First Western. He stated, "The opportunity to work with such an exceptional team in Arizona, supported by the firm's commitment to client-oriented growth, greatly excites me. It is essential to provide outstanding service, and I believe First Western's vision aligns with that. Their focus on community engagement and empowering local teams truly resonates with me."

Alex’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for First Western Trust as it reinforces its presence in Arizona, an area some financial institutions may consider retreating from. The firm aims to continue supporting local businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits through community engagement and philanthropic initiatives. “Alex’s exceptional record in building high-performing teams and delivering outstanding client experiences aligns perfectly with our values,” stated Matt Cassell, Chief Revenue Officer of First Western Trust.

Julie Courkamp, President and Chief Operating Officer, echoed this sentiment: "We are thrilled to welcome Alex to our team as we enhance our outreach in Arizona. With his proven expertise in wealth management and private banking, he is perfectly suited to uphold our client-first approach. His dynamism will only augment our ability to serve this vibrant community."

As part of its mission, First Western Trust is committed to investing in the communities it serves. The firm actively supports endeavors in entrepreneurship, education, the arts, and philanthropy throughout the West. With McDougall's leadership, the firm aims to further this mission in Arizona.

Scott Wylie, Founder, Chairman and CEO of First Western Trust, said, "We are excited to have Alex on board. His leadership experience and vision will be crucial in strengthening our position in Arizona, which is a key market for our growth strategy. We pride ourselves on combining institutional expertise with strong local connections, and Alex exemplifies this approach effectively."

A graduate of the University of the Cumberlands with a degree in Business Administration, Alex holds FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses. He has a history of involvement in the community, having served on boards for organizations such as the Teton County Library Foundation and the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole. Now relocating to Phoenix with his wife, Amanda, and their daughter, Alex looks forward to immersing himself in the community and enjoying Arizona's outdoor activities.

About First Western Trust

Headquartered in Denver and with locations across Colorado, Arizona, Wyoming, Montana, and California, First Western Trust focuses on serving high-net-worth individuals, families, and business owners. The firm's mission is to guide clients through their financial journeys with confidence, ensuring that they receive the personalized care that aligns with their unique needs. For more information, visit First Western Trust's website.