Co-Founder

John Howell is a banking specialist with over 20 years of experience since graduating from Lyon College with a degree in Economics. He carved his path working at First National Bank in Hot Springs, AR. In 2008, he graduated with an MBA from John Brown University - propelling his career to SVP of Commercial Lending at First Western Bank and OREO manager during the economic downturn. During these three tough years, he learned many valuable lessons and assisted in removing the bank from regulatory guidance. Total assets managed, both performing and non-performing, were over $55 Million.

In 2013, John was offered the position of Market President for Delta Trust and Bank in Northwest Arkansas. He enjoyed this management opportunity and continued to hone his skills as a commercial lender managing more than $40 million in his loan portfolio, which had growth of over $14 Million in less than one year. When Simmons purchased Delta Trust and Bank, he seized the exciting opportunity to co-start Hilborn & Howell, LLC with Thomas Hilborn.

Howell’s goal today is to help banks erase the inefficiencies of current cash flow strategies and be ahead of the curve regarding regulation. He enjoys his family, anything outdoors, good food, and live music. His proudest personal accomplishment was being inducted into the Lyon College Athletics Hall of Fame (Class of 2021)

Co-Founder

Thomas Hilborn graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor's of Science in Finance and Accounting. His finest accomplishment in school was winning first place in the portfolio competition for the highest return in his Advanced Investments class. Upon graduating, he then went to work for Delta Trust and Bank and quickly moved into an analyst position where he discovered a passion for cash flows. He also witnessed the impact on banks as analysts move into lending roles and what it takes to overhead this position. He co-founded Hilborn & Howell, LLC with John Howell to bring independent credit analysis to all banks needing this service.

Thomas loves to backpack, fish, camp, and do anything outdoors. He is also an avid golfer and loves to exercise. Furthermore, Thomas is a Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout.