Kutak Rock recently represented First National of Nebraska, Inc., in its acquisition of Western States Bancorporation (“Western States”) and the subsequent merger of Western States Bank within and into FNNI's subsidiary, First National Bank of Omaha (“FNBO”). Following the receipt of regulatory approvals, the transaction closed on February 14, 2022.

Founded more than 160 years ago, FNBO is a sixth-generation family owned bank. With the merger, FNBO expands its footprint to eight states throughout the Midwest and West, adding 10 locations across Northeastern Colorado, Western Nebraska and Southeastern Wyoming.

Kutak Rock partner Lisa Sarver advised FNNI and FNBO on the transaction. She was assisted by partners Mike Alvano and Caitlin Gustafson, and associate Brett Bruneteau in the corporate/M&A practice group; partners Bryan Handlos and Jeff Makovicka in the banking practice group; partner John Schembari in the employee benefits practice group; of counsel Mark Ellis in the corporate finance practice group; and partner Brian Eades in the real estate practice group.

With more than 45 attorneys, Kutak Rock’s national M&A practice group has built a solid reputation as a leader in middle market M&A transactions. Kutak Rock’s experience includes representing buyers, sellers and private equity groups in domestic and cross-border transactions.