Biography

Mr. Cook was a Partner and business leader at BKD, LLP a national CPA and advisory firm until his retirement in September 2019. He brings to the Company his insights and expertise from his exceptional 33-year career in public accounting providing solutions to financial services companies. His skills focused on developing and leading BKD, LLP financial services practice into the marketplace through quality, reputation, networking, brand, and high-level advisement. Various leadership positions during his career included national tax leader financial services practice, national leader outsourcing services practice, and regional leader for Kansas City, Iowa and Wisconsin financial services practice. During his time at BKD, LLP, Mr. Cook worked with some the firm’s largest financial services clients which gives him unique insights into financial reporting, taxation, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning and corporate governance matters. Mr. Cook also currently serves as Treasurer and as a member of the Board of Governors of Nebraska Wesleyan University. His roles include Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee, Executive Committee and Chair of the Investment Committee overseeing the school’s endowment. He has also served as a director for numerous non-profit, civic, and charitable organizations.