Jim Canton

Chief Executive Officer
Director of Novus Capital Holdings, Inc.

Jim Canton brings more than 40 years of banking leadership across multiple metropolitan markets, with deep roots in the Oklahoma City community dating back to 1983. He is widely recognized for combining seasoned judgment with a practical, relationship-driven approach—delivering clear, decisive leadership in both growth and complex market environments. 

As founder of First National Bank of Edmond / First Commercial Bank in 1996, Jim built a high-performing institution grounded in local market insight and client-focused decision-making. He led the bank through sustained growth, multiple acquisitions, and ultimately a successful sale in 2015, generating 2x–3x value appreciation for shareholders. 

Jim’s leadership reflects the core principles behind Novus—providing clients with direct access to authority, transparent decision-making, and solutions shaped by real-world experience. His track record demonstrates an ability to navigate complexity, create long-term value, and lead institutions that are both disciplined and entrepreneurial.

Jason Casey

President, Chief Credit Officer & Director 
Novus Capital Holdings, Inc. 

Jason Casey brings more than 25 years of experience delivering thoughtful, well-structured credit solutions to businesses and individuals. Known for combining disciplined credit expertise with practical, real-world judgment, he has built a career on making complex financial decisions clear, actionable, and aligned with client needs.

Formally trained in credit analysis at two major corporate banks, Jason pairs institutional rigor with an entrepreneurial mindset—allowing him to craft creative and sensible solutions.

Over the past two decades, he has led business development efforts that drove consistent organic growth and successful market expansion, while maintaining a strong commitment to relationship-driven banking. As a former Chief Credit Officer, Jason is deeply experienced in balancing risk and opportunity, ensuring clients have direct access to decision-makers who understand both the numbers and the local market dynamics.

Mel Barnes

Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer & Director 
Novus Capital Holdings, Inc.

Mel Barnes brings three decades of experience designing and executing high-performing banking operations with precision, efficiency, and accountability. She is known for transforming complex operational and regulatory frameworks into streamlined, transparent systems that enhance both the client experience and institutional performance.

With deep expertise in project management, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and banking technology, Mel ensures the delivery of modern, reliable solutions without unnecessary friction. Her leadership emphasizes clarity, responsiveness, and execution—giving clients and stakeholders confidence in how the bank operates behind the scenes.

Previously serving as both Treasury Management Director and Chief Operations Officer, Mel has a proven track record of building and scaling programs that drive meaningful deposit growth and long-term client relationships. Her approach reflects strong local market judgment, paired with the discipline required to operate at the highest regulatory standards.