Gov. Reynolds Appoints James Johnson as Superintendent of Banking

Gov. Reynolds announced the appointment of James Johnson of Gravity to serve as the next Superintendent of Banking in the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services beginning January 1, 2024. 

“James is a proven leader with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the banking industry that was forged in rural Iowa,” said Governor Kim Reynolds.  “His forward-thinking nature will serve him and the industry well as he protects the interests of those doing business with Iowa banks and other consumer lenders.” 

“I’m excited and honored to be named the State of Iowa’s next Superintendent of Banking,” Johnson said.  “Iowa’s banks play a pivotal role in the communities they serve and Iowa’s overall economy.  I look forward to serving the people of Iowa in this important role.” 

Johnson currently serves as the President and CEO of PCSB Bank, a family-owned community bank located in Clarinda.  He has been with PCSB Bank in a variety of roles since 2000.  He has served on the Board of the Iowa Bankers Association, where he also chaired the group’s Agriculture Committee.  Johnson graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business.  He is also a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado-Boulder. 

Johnson will replace Jeff Plagge who has announced that he will retire at the end of the year.  Plagge has served as the Superintendent of Banking since September of 2019. 

“I’d like to thank Jeff for his commendable service to the state of Iowa and ensuring that this transition of leadership at the Iowa Division of Banking will allow Iowa to continue our tradition of great banking regulation leadership,” Governor Reynolds said. 

The Superintendent of Banking is appointed to a four-year term by the Governor and the appointment is subject to confirmation by the Iowa Senate.