As a regulator at the OCC, Koehn gained wide-ranging experience examining a variety of banks, from community institutions to large organizations. He encountered both well-managed financial institutions and those facing challenges, including the lingering aftermath of the farm crisis. These experiences provided him a broad perspective on the industry and instilled invaluable lessons about banking, risk assessment and management practices. After four years of traveling across the United States with the OCC, Koehn made the transition to community banking to be more present for his wife and young family. His entrepreneurial spirit drew him towards the private sector, where he saw opportunities to apply his regulatory insights within a different context. “The principles instilled from a regulatory background last forever. The broad perspectives of banking from seeing so many different banks and the identification and understanding of risk are fundamentals I still use today,” he said. Koehn’s first opportunity in community banking was with Gretna State Bank, a subsidiary of Pinnacle Bank. He assumed multiple roles including cashier, vice president, commercial and ag lender and compliance officer, which speaks volumes about his adaptability and drive. After nearly two years, he transferred to the bank’s holding company in Central City. At 28 years old, he became responsible for the oversight of all Pinnacle Bank locations in Nebraska, Kansas and Wyoming, just shy of a billion dollars in assets. “Working at the holding company for a large community bank was a unique, tremendous opportunity for someone of that age to experience. It certainly positioned me for the future that I have been blessed to enjoy in the industry,” he said. His experience at such a young age left a lasting impression on Koehn, shaping his approach to leadership and mentorship. He emphasizes the importance of depth of knowledge and the ability to simplify complex concepts for younger colleagues, drawing from his own experiences of breaking down banking matters into understandable terms. Koehn’s commitment to integrity and doing what is right, even in the face of public 9 NEBRASKA BANKER
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