LifeStore CEO appointed as Chair of North Carolina Bankers Association

WEST JEFFERSON — The North Carolina Bankers Association (NCBA) has announced its board of directors for the 2024-2025 term. Leading its new board, effective following the NCBA’s 128th Annual Meeting, will be incoming chairman Bob Washburn, Director, President and CEO for LifeStore Financial Group. NCBA shared, “With his extensive experience and strategic vision, we are confident that Bob will provide valuable insight and leadership as we continue to serve North Carolina’s banking community.”

Washburn has served on the NCBA Board since 2019. He has also served on multiple industry committees, which is a testament to his dedication and commitment to community banking.

After completing an MBA from Appalachian State, Washburn began his banking career at Northwestern Bank in Hickory. He served in multiple roles at other banks before joining LifeStore in 2004. Under his leadership, LifeStore Financial Group has grown from $220 million to just over $442 million

Washburn is also a strong supporter of our community. Under his leadership, he led LifeStore Financial Group to develop a comprehensive benefit package to meet the needs of its employees while serving the community. Those benefits include paid time off for community service, childcare assistance for employees, and scholarships for employee’s children. LifeStore was recognized as a “Best Employer” by Business North Carolina magazine this month.

Washburn is the past Chair of the Ashe Chamber of Commerce, serves on the Board of Directors for High Country Caregivers, and has been involved in many service organizations throughout his career. Bob and his wife, Glenda, are active members of Mount Vernon Baptist Church and love spending time with their family, especially their five grandchildren.