Jefferson Bank’s CEO to retire; successor named

SAN ANTONIO — Longtime Jefferson Bank President and CEO Danny Butler will retire after 26 years with the bank, effective Dec. 31, 2025.

Jefferson Bank, a family- owned Texas-based bank founded in 1946, also announced the promotion of internal leads to key executive roles: Mitch Walker will succeed Butler as CEO, and Reagan Winslow will assume the role of president, both moves effective Jan. 1, 2026.

“That leadership begins at the top, with a chairman who is actively engaged in day-to-day operations and a board that is deeply aligned with the bank’s mission,” Paul McSween III, Jefferson Bank board chairman, said in a July 21 statement. McSween will continue in his role as chairman, helping ensure a strong foundation and cultural continuity as the next generation of leaders step forward.

The transition comes as Jefferson Bank approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026.

Since its founding, the San Antonio-based institution has remained steadfast in its people-first philosophy, placing integrity, responsiveness, and commitment at the heart of every decision.

That ethos is captured in the bank’s enduring tagline, “This Is Personal to Us.”

As an independent, family-owned bank, Jefferson represents a rare and disappearing breed – a true community bank with deeply rooted values and leadership that remains personally invested in the organization’s success.

“Our leadership transitions are not just about titles. They reflect commitment to our strength, culture and our belief in the power of people,” McSween said. “Mitch and Reagan are talented, principled leaders who have evolved with this organization. Their promotions reflect our belief in cultivating leadership from within and honoring the legacy of leadership that has shaped Jefferson Bank for nearly eight decades.”

Butler will retire after 26 years of service at Jefferson Bank and nearly 50 years in the banking industry. Under his leadership, the bank expanded its presence throughout Central Texas, grew assets from $300 million to nearly $3 billion, and strengthened its portfolio of businesses, including 1900 Wealth, Jefferson Bank Mortgage, and Sanger & Altgelt Insurance.

Known for his humility, trust-building, and strategic foresight, Butler helped shape a leadership culture grounded in empowerment, mentorship, and integrity.

Butler will remain actively involved with Jefferson Bank as a board member and in a business development capacity, strengthening long-standing client relationships. Walker becomes Jefferson Bank’s fifth CEO since its founding. Walker joined the bank 18 years ago as a credit analyst and has since held roles in commercial lending and executive management.