Citizens Bank of Edmond Announces Key Leadership Personnel Appointment

Nationally experienced banking strategist and enlisted U.S. Army combat veteran James Cunningham joins Citizens Bank of Edmond and ROGER Bank as Growth Officer to accelerate their next era of expansion, building on Citizens' 125-year legacy.

EDMOND, Okla., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Citizens Bank of Edmond and ROGER Bank have named James Cunningham as Growth Officer, adding a nationally experienced banking strategist and enlisted U.S. Army combat veteran to assist with the organization's next era of growth.

Cunningham joins Citizens and ROGER from USAA, where he served as Head of Military Affairs Strategy and previously served as a Bank Strategy Director. At USAA, he developed strategies spanning the organization's military engagement, marketing, and lines of business.

"We added James to the team to help build what comes next for Citizens and ROGER," said Jill Castilla, Chairman, President, and CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond. "He has operated at a high level in banking, strategy, and technology, and he is also an Army combat veteran who understands what it means to put the mission first. As Citizens enters its next 125 years and ROGER expands its national impact through military business banking, James gives us the experience and firepower to move faster, think bigger, and execute at an entirely new level."

"Citizens and ROGER have a rare combination of bold vision, entrepreneurial speed, and an unparalleled commitment to the people they serve," Cunningham said. "There is tremendous opportunity to scale what these organizations have already built while creating entirely new ways to serve customers, communities, and the military. I am excited to help turn that opportunity into meaningful and measurable growth."

Cunningham previously worked at McKinsey & Company, advising clients across multiple markets on strategy, implementation, technology modernization, and digital business building. His experience also includes strategy and business development at Markley Group, investment banking at JPMorgan Chase, and portfolio strategy at Zions Bancorporation.

Earlier in his career, Cunningham led the Military Skills Translator at Miltary.com, quadrupling the product's revenue during his tenure. He also managed and developed digital platforms for Hiring Our Heroes, an initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce connecting veterans and military spouses with employment opportunities.

Cunningham began his career as an Airborne Calvary Scout in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of sergeant in two and a half years. He earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and graduated cum laude from the University of Utah.

"James understands banking from nearly every angle: capital, technology, products, customers, and strategy," Castilla said. "More importantly, he knows how to connect those pieces around a clear mission and move from strategy to execution.  He integrates with the community wherever he is and we are excited to have him integrated into the Edmond and ROGER communities."

About Citizens Bank of Edmond 

Founded in 1901, Citizens Bank of Edmond is Oklahoma County's oldest, continuously operating community bank and is dedicated to serving customers through innovative banking solutions and exceptional service. With a legacy of 125 years and headquartered in Edmond, Oklahoma, Citizens Bank of Edmond combines relationship-driven service with forward-thinking innovation to meet the evolving needs of customers and the community. Through a commitment to community investment, small business support, and innovative banking solutions, Citizens Bank of Edmond continues to build stronger communities while delivering exceptional financial experiences. Learn more at mycitizens.bank.  

About ROGER Bank 

ROGER Bank is a modern, veteran-founded digital bank dedicated to the financial well-being of U.S. military members and their families. Backed by Citizens Bank of Edmond in Oklahoma, ROGER is veteran-owned, led, and operated and was created to revolutionize the banking experience for those in uniform. As one of the nation's fastest-growing military banks, ROGER Bank offers high-yield checking and savings accounts, zero overdraft fees, and early direct deposit of military pay. ROGER Bank's team is composed of 100% veterans or active service members, and its advisory board includes distinguished military and industry leaders. Learn more at roger.bank.

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SOURCE Citizens Bank of Edmond