Since the late 1800s, First National Bank—or 1NB—has helped grow Ardmore—a city with a population of just under 25,000 located in south-central Oklahoma—into the flourishing and vibrant community it is today.
Established in 1891, prior to statehood, 1NB over the years has built a legacy of community, support and top-notch service in Ardmore while establishing a foundation of soundness and stability that few banks can offer.
The bank’s successful investment in the Ardmore community has prompted expansion into surrounding areas: 1NB now has branches in Norman, Sulphur, Lone Grove, Marietta, Velma, Ringling and Madill. In November, a new branch in Edmond further expanded their ability to serve the people of Oklahoma.
Jim Canton, a veteran banking professional with over 45 years of banking experience, was tapped to serve as senior vice president and market president of the 1NB Edmond branch, where he is excited about leading the bank’s investment efforts into this vibrant city of almost 100,000.
Jim brings a wealth of expertise to his newest role in the financial industry. In 1996, he founded First Commercial Bank in Edmond, which under his direction grew from a start-up bank to over $300 million in assets. He also served as senior lending officer at Quail Creek Bank, president and CEO of Oklahoma State Bank, and market president for Bank SNB and Simmons Bank.
Throughout his career, this banking veteran has helped increase the stability of these banking institutions and led with integrity and trust.
Like all First National Bank management, Jim is deeply rooted in the community in which he serves. He strives to foster strong relationships with customers based on respect and trust and strives to make the banking experience convenient, giving customers the best experience possible.
“The experience we have in the communities we serve makes us a reliable and trusted partner. We understand the needs of our community because this is where we live. We build lasting relationships that are a win-win for the bank and our clients.”
He credits his success to a work ethic based on integrity, respect and hard work instilled in him by his father. Those same values have been a cornerstone of the banking organizations in which he’s been a leader.
During his four years with Oklahoma State Bank, the bank attained its highest level of earnings, expanded into Edmond and became poised for continued growth. He expects similar success at 1NB’s new Edmond location.
Over the past three decades, Jim has excelled in developing key market niches, including the Hispanic community, the healthcare industry and the commercial real estate sector. Jim enjoys mentoring young financial analysts and lenders while thriving on the challenge of building market share and presence for his banks.
“I always advise the next generation of bank leaders to know who they work for: their stockholders, clients and employees,” he reflects. “No one succeeds without a lot of help from others.”
To best serve its clients, the Edmond branch of 1NB employs high-quality, experienced staff members who excel in serving customers’ personal, professional and commercial banking needs. The Edmond branch, located on 33rd Street between Kelly Avenue and Santa Fe Avenue, offers a full range of loan, deposit and treasury management services. Jim said the focus for the Edmond branch is commercial banking, specializing in commercial cash management and deposit services, working capital and equipment financing, and commercial real estate lending.
“All of our branches, including our new Edmond branch, are designed to offer a level of private and professional banking that is unique and distinctive. Our branch feels professional and comfortable,” Jim adds.
“We strive to make timely decisions, enabling our customers to quickly move forward with transactions and projects knowing they have the support of their bank. Because we know the local and national business environments, we’re able to offer knowledge and guidance to help our clients succeed.”
1NB’s unequaled customer service and team approach in providing solutions for clients and embracing new opportunities follows in the footsteps of the “mother” bank.
First National Bank-Edmond
1763 W. 33rd St.
405.856.1010
"We understand the needs of our community because this is where we live. We build lasting relationships that are a win-win for the bank and our clients.”
“I always advise the next generation of bank leaders to know who they work for: their stockholders, clients and employees. No one succeeds without a lot of help from others.”
