Kemper’s Retirement Shakes Up Commerce Bank Leadership

Commerce Bancshares Vice Chairman Jonathan Kemper is set to retire from the company at the end of July, according to a press release sent out by the company.  Kemper will end his day-to-day activities in that role on July 31st.

That means as of August 1st, Kevin Barth will become the Chairman and CEO of Commerce Bank of Kansas City but will continue as the head of Commerce’s commercial line of business.  Barth will also retain his title as Executive Vice President for Commerce Bancshares and will continue to be a member of the Commerce Bancshares, Inc. Executive Management Committee.  

The new President of Commerce Bank of Kansas City will be Rob Bratcher.  The promotion means he will lead the commercial banking division in Kansas City but will also continue to head up the bank’s healthcare specialty group.

Nick Warren will be promoted to President of Regional Banking for Commerce while Tom Harmon will also receive a promotion to President of Commerce Bank of St. Louis.  

In the press release, Kemper said, “I have been honored to work with each of these individuals throughout my career, and fully expect them to support our customers, communities and the continued success and growth of Commerce.”