BACKGROUND ON A.W. Spellmeyer Some careers begin with a carefully planned interview. A.W. Spellmeyer’s began with a poker game. While attending a Christmas party shortly after graduating with an economics degree, A.W. found himself sitting across the poker table from Jim Lanigan, one of his father’s fraternity brothers and a leader at what was then First St. Louis Securities, now known as First Bankers’ Banc Securities (FBBS). A.W. had interviewed for a position at the brokerage just weeks earlier without much success. But after taking James’ money during the card game, he earned something far more valuable — a second look. That unexpected opportunity led him to join the company in July 2004. More than two decades later, the one-time bond trader now serves as president and CEO of FBBS. Under A.W.’s leadership, the company has grown into one of the nation’s premier fixed-income partners for community banks. Throughout the journey, A.W. has remained grounded in the culture that first attracted him to the organization — one built on integrity, relationships and putting community banks first. We sat down with A.W. to discuss his career, the evolution of FBBS and how the company is helping community banks navigate today’s rapidly changing financial landscape. The following are excerpts from our conversation. President and CEO of First Bankers’ Banc Securities
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