NBKC Bank Announces CFO Transition, New COO

Posted August 14, 2025

Kansas City-based nbkc Bank announced its decades-long CFO will retire, with a successor stepping in later this year, and the addition of a new chief operations officer.

Eric Garretson, who has been CFO for the bank since 2002, will retire from his role effective August 31. He will be succeeded by John Mahoney, nbkc bank’s director of finance and senior vice president, according to a release shared with Ingram’s.

“I am so proud of Eric and grateful for his accomplishments over the past two decades. He brought to nbkc unique leadership qualities and his impact on the organization spanned across our business,” nbkc CEO Michael Bartkoski said in the release.

Garretson will join nbkc’s board of directors in January. He served more than 23 years at the bank.

Mahoney brings more than 16 years of accounting, finance and audit experience, including senior roles in banking and public accounting. He joined the bank in September 2024 when he took on his current role. Before nbkc, Mahoney served as the finance director for NBH Bank in Kansas City.

“He brings to his new role years of experience and a proven track record of success. I have every confidence that John will continue to drive our bank forward with the same passion and commitment that Eric demonstrated throughout his career,” Bartkoski said.

The announcement of the bank’s CFO transition was accompanied by another executive leadership position being filled. Jana Merfen officially joined nbkc as its COO on August 11, according to the release. Merfen will oversee functional areas, including risk management, vendor management, information technology and information security.

With more than a decade of experience in financial services, Merfen most recently worked at CrossFirst Bank, where she served as the chief technology officer. CrossFirst was acquired by First Busey Corporation in March.

“We’re excited to welcome these outstanding leaders to nbkc as we continue to grow and position the bank for what’s next,” Bartkoski said.“Their experience and fresh perspectives will play a key role in shaping our strategic direction, driving innovation, and ensuring we deliver even greater value to our customers and community.”