At First Western, we share an uncommon entrepreneurial edge, possessing diverse backgrounds and impressive credentials. Our ability to think creatively and build a solid plan for execution supports a thriving culture and promotes continued success throughout our organization.
With an innate desire and ability to inspire and motivate others to achieve success, we are dedicated to our clients, our fellow associates, and the ongoing strength and growth of the company.
Senior Leadership Team
Our senior leadership team consists of nine leading individuals from across the organization who provide significant experience in wealth management, private banking, financial services, and strategy.
Scott Wylie
In 2002 recognizing the need for an integrated approach for delivering financial services to the growing affluent market Scott Wylie co-founded First Western Trust.
Julie Courkamp
As Chief Financial Officer, Julie oversees all accounting and finance functions. Julie works directly with our board of directors and banking regulators relative to current financial position and forecasted performance.
John Sawyer, CFA
As Chief Investment Officer, John is responsible for developing First Western’s overall investment strategy and leading the company’s Investment Policy Committee
Josh Wilson
As Regional President, Josh is responsible for managing the operations and associates of First Western Trust’s regional offices. Josh proactively seeks new business solution opportunities and strengthens relationships with current clients.
Gary Lutz
As President of Product Groups and Commercial Banking, Gary is responsible for growing and leading the company’s teams of subject matter experts.
Daniel C. Thompson, CFP®
As Regional President of Arizona, Dan is responsible for the overall direction and strategy of the Arizona team and is involved with all aspects of client relationship management.
Presidents & Chairmen
Our presidents and chairmen are experts in the private banking, wealth management, and investment management and provide strategic direction for our local offices.
Chad Maze
As President of our Phoenix office, Chad is responsible for building and strengthening new and existing wealth, investment management, trust, and private banking client relationships for First Western Trust.
Charles Bantis
As President of our Aspen office, Charles is responsible for the day-to-day operations and business development of the Aspen team.
Eric Long
As President of our Boulder office, Eric is responsible for building and strengthening client relationships in commercial and consumer lending, including all aspects of private banking.
Jim Gersack, CFP®
As President of our Jackson Hole office, Jim is involved in all aspects of client relationships, wealth and investment management, business development, and the day-to-day operations of the office.
Kay Jones
As Chairman of our Jackson Hole office, Kay is responsible for growing and maintaining client relationships in wealth planning, investment management, private banking, and trust and estate planning.
Matt Gorr
As Chairman of our Boulder office, Matt is responsible for building and maintaining client relationships in the Boulder community.
Omar Chyou, AWMA®
As President of our Cherry Creek office, Omar Chyou is responsible for building and strengthening client relationships in wealth planning, investment management, commercial and consumer lending, and private banking.
Suzanne Johnson
As President of our Denver office, Suzanne Johnson is responsible for building and strengthening new and existing client relationships.
Timothy Stack
As President of First Western Trust’s DTC/Cherry Hills office, Timothy is responsible for building and strengthening new and existing client relationships.
Trish Stark
As President of our Scottsdale office, Trish is responsible for building and strengthening new and existing wealth, investment management, trust, and private banking client relationships.