PIERRE– BankWest is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole C. Nachtigal as Vice President, Trust Division Manager. With more than two decades of experience in fiduciary administration, estate settlement, and wealth management, Nicole brings an exceptional depth of knowledge to BankWest’s clients—particularly small business owners and multigenerational family farms.
Nicole’s legal and fiduciary background has made her a sought-after advisor. She has administered a broad range of trusts including dynasty, directed, charitable, and cross-border trusts. Her unique ability to bridge the legal, tax, and emotional complexities of estate and business planning has earned her the trust of clients and colleagues alike.
“Nicole brings a rare combination of legal expertise and personal insight to our Trust team,” said Charles H. Burke III, Chaiman and CEO of BankWest. “Her experience with closely held businesses and multigenerational families aligns perfectly with our mission to serve our South Dakota customers and communities. We’re grateful to have her join the BankWest family.”
A Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA®), Nicole is especially skilled in working with family-owned enterprises, offering guidance on succession planning, governance, and navigating sensitive interpersonal dynamics. Her strategic, client-focused approach supports families as they seek to preserve both legacy and livelihood.
“Helping people take care of their families and continue their family business for generations is the most satisfying part of my work,” said Nicole Nachtigal. “I’m excited to lead the BankWest Trust Division and bring tailored, practical solutions to South Dakota’s small business owners and farm families.”
Nicole earned her Juris Doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in Business Management from Black Hills State University. She is an active member of the Sioux Falls Estate Planning Council, South Dakota Trust Association, South Dakota Bar Association, American Bankers Association, and South Dakota Bankers Association.
BankWest is a full-service, independent community bank with 19 branches in 16 South Dakota communities including: Armour, Colman, Delmont, Geddes, Gregory, Kadoka, Kennebec, Madison, Mitchell, Onida, Pierre, Rapid City, Selby, Spearfish, Tripp and Winner. It also has stand-alone insurance offices in Murdo, Philip, Presho, Rapid City, and Salem.
BankWest is a full-service, independent community bank with 19 branches in 16 South Dakota communities including: Armour, Colman, Delmont, Geddes, Gregory, Kadoka, Kennebec, Madison, Mitchell, Onida, Pierre, Rapid City, Selby, Spearfish, Tripp and Winner. It also has stand-alone insurance offices in Murdo, Philip, Presho, Rapid City, and Salem.
