United Bank announced this week the appointment of Andrew Dawson as president of its Wilmington market.

Dawson will lead "strategic efforts to drive commercial and retail production while ensuring the profitability and sustained growth of the market," according to a news release. "Dawson will also play a pivotal leadership role in managing public relations efforts in Wilmington, while also representing United Bank in the community through active participation in civic affairs and professional organizations."

Dawson stated in the release, “The team in the Carolinas has done a fantastic job introducing the bank to its local communities, and I plan to continue building on that work and finding new ways and opportunities to better serve United’s customers in the region. I look forward to working with and integrating into the Wilmington community.”

United Bank has four locations in Wilmington, and the market covers the Wilmington and Wallace communities. Dawson will be based at United’s location at 115 N. Third St. in downtown Wilmington.

Dawson has more than 16 years of experience in the banking industry, all with United Bank. For the past 11 years, he served as market president of United’s Huntington market in West Virginia, according to the release. He began his career at United right after college as a credit analyst before being promoted to credit department manager.

In 2012, Dawson took on the role of commercial lender where he continued to make significant contributions to the bank’s growth leading up to his promotion to market president, the release stated.

“As we looked to fill our market president vacancy, we knew we needed someone who could help grow our presence and strengthen relationships here in Wilmington, through both meaningful business opportunities and deep community involvement,” stated Marshall Cooper, United Bank regional president, in the release. “Andrew not only brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience as a seasoned market president but also expertise in the commercial and industrial lending side of business, which we are very excited to explore more in this region. We look forward to witnessing our Wilmington community grow and thrive under his leadership.”

Dawson received a bachelor's degree in finance with a minor in economics from Marshall University and attended the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking. A West Virginia native, Dawson was active on several boards of local Huntington organizations, including the Coalfield Development Corporation, the Boys & Girls Club of Huntington, Putnam County Parks, Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Huntington Area Development Council, according to the release.