FreedomBank Names James Moritz President, Announces Leadership Promotions

FreedomBank of Elkader, Monona, Postville, and Waukon, promoted James Moritz to President. Moritz, who has 35 years of banking experience with FreedomBank, has been involved in credit, ALCO, trust, and executive leadership. He has been Market President of the Monona location for the past six years and a member of the board of directors since 2019. Moritz succeeds Kathy Mueller, a 45-year banker who served as president from 2020 – 2026. Mueller will retain her role as CEO of FreedomBank and president of the bank’s holding company, FreedomBank Shares, Inc.

Also promoted:

Adam Weigand to Chief Credit Officer. Weigand has 27 years of community banking experience and serves on the board of directors and executive leadership team.

Melissa Walz to Board Secretary. Walz is a 32-year FreedomBank employee whose current role is Vice President and Cashier.

Adam Delphey to Vice President and IT Officer. Delphey has extensive IT experience and will assume the IT duties of Senior Vice President and IT Officer, Krista Fischer, who has announced plans to retire in January 2027.

Trey Burnikel to Loan Officer. Burnikel specializes in consumer lending and works closely with customers on personal borrowing needs in the Monona market area.

Carter Peyton to Loan Officer. Peyton specializes in agricultural and commercial lending and works with local producers and businesses in the Waukon market area.

These promotions reflect FreedomBank’s commitment to developing leaders from within, supporting local decision-making, and ensuring a strong future for the organization. As a 100% employee-owned community bank, FreedomBank remains focused on building trusted relationships and promoting success for its customers, communities, and employee-owners.