The shareholders of First Farmers & Merchants have elected Tractor Supply executive Kim Vella to the community bank holding company's board.

Vella is a senior vice president at Tractor Supply and has been the retailer's chief people officer since mid-2010. She joined Brentwood-based Tractor Supply in early 1997 and has been a member of its executive committee since May of 2007. She also is a member of First Farmers' advisory board in Williamson County.

“Kim brings a wealth of knowledge to our Board,” said Chairman and CEO Randy Stevens. “She understands the rural Americana market and lifestyle, having worked with Tractor Supply Company, the leading retail farm and ranch store brand in America, for more than 15 years. And she’s keenly attuned to the valuable role of employees in both customer and community service. Kim will be a strong voice in guiding our future efforts to the benefit of our customers, our employees and our shareholders.”

Founded in 1909, First Farmers has assets of more than $1 billion and runs 18 offices in seven area counties. It is preparing to open a branch in Cool Springs' McEwen development.