(MAYFIELD, Ky.) – FNB Bank announced Tuesday a major leadership restructuring that positions the 150-year-old financial institution for its next phase of growth, splitting a previously combined role between two seasoned banking professionals.
Paul Scott will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, while Lori Noel steps into the position of President, both effective October 1, 2025. The Board of Directors approved the strategic transition in June.
The leadership change coincides with the retirement of Sally Hopkins, who led FNB as President and CEO for the past five years and served the institution for 17 years. Hopkins will transition to Chairman of the Board in October and remain engaged with the bank through the end of 2025.
“It’s an honor to take on the leadership of an institution with such a rich history and a deep commitment to its community,” Scott said. “Sally and the leaders who came before us have done a masterful job building FNB into a pillar of trust and service.”
Dividing Responsibilities
As CEO, Scott will set the strategic vision, lead the executive team, and ensure financial and regulatory soundness. Scott brings 23 years of banking experience entirely with FNB, currently serving as Chief Financial Officer. He earned his MBA from Murray State University and is a graduate of both Financial Managers School and the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin.
Noel, as President, will guide the bank’s strategy, drive growth, and oversee organizational development.
“Assuming the role of Bank President is a tremendous honor,” Noel said. “I am dedicated to maintaining the trusted relationships I have with my clients and to ensuring that FNB remains a reliable, forward-thinking partner for the communities we serve.”
Noel brings more than 33 years of banking experience to her new role, currently serving as FNB’s Chief Lending Officer. She attended Murray State University and is a graduate of the Southeastern School of Advanced Commercial Lending, Kentucky Bankers Association General Banking School, and Graduate School of Banking Wisconsin. She serves as a Trustee for the Southeastern School of Banking and is a member of both the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Board and Kentucky Agricultural Economic Development Board.
A Legacy of Stability
Founded in 1875, FNB Bank ranks among Kentucky’s oldest financial institutions with assets exceeding $700 million. The bank has earned three consecutive “Outstanding” ratings for the Community Reinvestment Act from the FDIC and ranks among the highest in the nation for safety and soundness.
FNB received the “Best Places to Work in Kentucky” Small Business Category Award from 2021-2024 and operates ten locations across Graves, McCracken, Calloway, Trigg, and Marshall counties.
The Board expressed confidence that the new leadership structure will ensure continued success, with Scott’s strategic vision complementing Noel’s extensive industry knowledge and lending experience.