First Hawaiian Bank Chairman Don Horner, who overcame opposition to be unanimously reappointed head of the state Board of Education, is retiring from his position at the state’s largest financial institution. 

Bob Harrison, president and chief executive officer of First Hawaiian, will take on the additional role as chairman while Horner will remain on the board of directors at both the bank and parent company BancWest Corp., the First Hawaiian board announced Monday.

“This was the logical next step in our succession plans,” Horner said. “Bob is committed to continuing the bank’s legacy of steady, consistent growth, relationship banking, and community support.”

Harrison, 53, became CEO on Jan. 1, 2012, when Horner retired from that position. Harrison has more than 25 years of financial services industry experience while Horner has been affiliated with First Hawaiian for 36 years.

 The board also announced Monday that Matthew Cox, president and CEO of Matson Inc.; and Scott Wo, chief investment officer of  C.S. Wo & Sons Ltd., were appointed to First Hawaiian’s 24-member board. They will replace Dr. Richard T. Mamiya and Robert C. Wo., both whom retired.