This story is part of the QCBJ’s annual Newsmakers edition. This year-end wrap-up by the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal’s staff includes some of the biggest stories we brought you during 2024. Each story also includes an update on the subject. Excerpts from the original stories as well as the new updates appeared in print in our Monday, Dec. 23 edition.
The initial story was published in April of 2024.
“Quad City Bank & Trust’s 30th year was a successful one; full of exciting changes,” the company told the QCBJ for this update.
One of the biggest came in May when John Anderson, CEO of 17 years, announced he would retire after 26 years with the bank. Laura “Divot” Ekizian, QCBT’s current president and chief relationship officer, was to assume the role of president and CEO following Mr. Anderson’s Jan. 3, 2025, retirement.
Ms. Ekizian will draw upon her 23-year career with QCBT and long-standing professional relationship with Mr. Anderson as she takes over the role. The pair has been working together to make the transition easier.
Ms. Ekizan is expected to remain committed to QCBT’s deep community ties and its foundation of employee volunteerism and engagement while moving the bank forward. That includes expansion of its sixth location slated for completion in 2026. The new facility, planned for the corner of Middle and Forest Grove roads in Bettendorf, will house a branch bank and the headquarters of QCR Holdings, the bank’s parent company.
“Her zest, vigor, passion and commitment to this organization are second to none,” Mr. Anderson said. “There’s no greater feeling when you get close to retirement than knowing that you’re handing off to someone who will absolutely take care of the needs of not only our great team but you, our valued community.”
In 2024, QCBT executive leadership also collected multiple honors they say continued to “solidify and confirm QCBT’s place as the area’s No. 1 bank.” They included 2024 QCBJ Best of the Region awards for Best Wealth Management and Best Bank. Ms. Ekizian also was selected as one of the QCBJ’s 2024 “Women of Influence.”
Mr. Anderson was honored as Best Business Leader by the Quad-City Times, while QCBT was named Best Bank, Best Investment Firm and Best Place to Work.
– Kenda Burrows
