Ben Watkins has been hired as Wahpeton, N.D., market president at Bell Bank, one of the nation’s largest family- and employee-owned banks. 

A native of LaMoure, N.D., and a graduate of the University of Jamestown, Watkins has more than a decade of experience in the financial sector, most recently serving as branch president at First Community Credit Union in Wahpeton. His experience includes consumer, commercial and ag banking. 

“Ben has great connections in the southern Red River Valley and the Wahpeton-Breckenridge community,” said Todd Zabel, Bell’s senior vice president of community banking. “We are excited to have him lead the continued growth and success in the Wahpeton area.” 

Bell Bank opened in Wahpeton in 2007 and moved into a newly constructed building at 717 2nd Avenue North in 2013. The bank has consistently received local awards including Best Place to Work and Bank with the Friendliest Tellers. In his role, Watkins steps into the shoes of longtime Wahpeton banker Rick Steckler, who retired from Bell earlier this year. 

“I’m proud to be a part of Bell,” Watkins said. “We have a tremendous, experienced team and are proud to serve our many loyal customers.” 

Watkins and his wife, Brianne, live in Colfax, N.D., and have four children.