Find a commercial lending officer

Adam Stonecipher

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Danville IL

Specializing in agricultural and farm lending, Adam draws on his banking experience and a lifetime in production agriculture to assist farmers in navigating the extreme challenges of their business. He is active in Danville Rotary and supports and volunteers for FFA and 4-H. He and his family live on their family farm, where he also runs a grain farming and cattle operation.

• Vice President, Commercial and Ag Banking
• 18 Years of Experience in the Banking Industry
• B.S., Agricultural Economics, Purdue University; Graduate Degree in Banking, University of Wisconsin – Madison

Email me

Dan Laughner

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Danville IL

Commercial Lending is the perfect intersection of Dan’s experience with agricultural and financial experience, enabling him to provide exceptional service for our clients interested in commercial real estate, industrial and agricultural lending. Currently on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Vermilion Advantage, Board of Directors of the United Way of Danville Area Inc. and Warren County (Indiana) Farm Bureau Coop, Dan has heavily involved himself in his community he has called home for nearly 3 decades. He enjoys golfing, motorcycling and waterfowl hunting.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• BS in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University

Email me

David DeHaan

Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Bloomington, IL

Having called Mclean County for over 20 years, David utilizes his knowledge of our community as well as his years of experience and education to supply the highest degree of service to his clients interested in commercial lending. A Board Member of the Bloomington Rotary Foundation, Mentor for the 11th Judicial Veteran’s Treatment Court and member of the East White Oak Church, David is a proud supporter of our community. Married with a daughter, he enjoys attending PGA golf tournaments, hitting the greens himself, and spending weekends rifle shooting competitively.

• Commercial Lending
• Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Qualitative Methods from Illinois State University
• Commercial Lending School, Illinois Bankers Association
• Certified Residential Mortgage Specialist, National Association of Mortgage Brokers

Email me

Dustin Smith

Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Pontiac, IL

Dustin began his banking career in 2006 after graduating from Southern Illinois University. In 2007 Dustin started working for First Financial Bank as a Commercial and Agricultural Lender in Pontiac, Illinois. Currently Dustin is the Vice President and Senior Commercial & Agricultural Lender serving our clients in the Pontiac & Bloomington, Illinois areas. Dustin believes in developing and cultivating long-term customer relationships and building a financial plan that fits his client’s needs. Dustin is active in the local 4-H program, FFA and GLCEDC. Dustin is married and has one son who competitively races his horses nationally. When Dustin and his family have free time they enjoy snowmobiling, riding side by sides, and horseback riding.

• Vice President/Senior Commercial and Ag Lender
• 15 Years of Banking Experience
• B.S., Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Email me

Jeff Wilson

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Olney, IL

Having spent his entire life in Dundas and with his decades of experience in the lending industry, Jeffrey is truly an expert in commercial lending for our region. His management of relationships with agriculture and commercial borrowers includes origination as well as servicing borrowings for business purposes. His dedication to his craft has included many years of specialty training and education, while his community involvement includes numerous association memberships and offices. While his priority is time with his wife, children and grandchildren, Jeffrey also enjoys aiding in the achievement of local youth and caring for and exhibiting Angus cattle.

• Regional Senior Leader
• BS Agriculture Economics from University of Illinois
• Graduate School of Banking from University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Over three decades in commercial lending

Email me

Joey Gallagher

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Olney IL

A graduate of Finance and Investment Banking, Joey is well educated in the financials of businesses and farmers. Residing in Olney for nearly 30 years, he is a member of the Richland Golf Club and the County Line Gun Club. Joey enjoys spending time with family and friends, hunting, fishing, golfing and just being outdoors.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending Officer
• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance/Investment Banking from Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Email me

John Kempen

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Champaign, IL

With an extensive background in banking and a focus on commercial lending, John is an excellent source for our business loan clients. His dedication in the community, where he has lived for 20 years, is a long list of associations to which he has volunteered his time including his current membership with the 100 Club of Illinois. A member of a large family that enjoys vacationing together, John also spends his free time water and snow skiing and hitting the golf course.

• Commercial Lending
• Bachelor of Science in Finance from Eastern Illinois University

Email me

Lee Cleary

Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Champaign, IL

Having started his career in commercial credit analysis, Lee has worked his way into commercial lending utilizing his experience and various experiencing to provide our clients with the best in business loan banking. On his favorite holiday, Halloween, Lee also celebrates his wedding anniversary with his wife with whom he is now expecting their first child in addition to their two Saint Bernard dogs. Lee enjoys travelling, golfing and cheering on the Green Bay Packer, St. Louis Cardinals and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Lending Officer
• BA in Accounting from Aurora University

Email me

Michael Johnson

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Danville, IL

With almost thirty years of experience, Michael has developed and maintained commercial relationships in the community, assisting with a wide array of banking possibilities. He not only helps with commercial lending but also helps clients find suitable financial options they need to manage their business and personal finances. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, attending his boys athletics events, fishing and golfing.

• Commercial Lending Officier
• Danville Area Community College – Associate Degree
• Illinois State University – Bachelors Degree in Agribusiness

Email me

Alan Badger

Agricultural Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Sullivan, IN

Nearly two decades of experience in Farm Credit Services and a degree in Agricultural Economics contribute to the expert service Alan gives to his clients. As an Agricultural and Commercial lender, he assists clients in lending, treasury management and deposit services. Alan currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Sullivan County Community Hospital, as Treasurer of the Sullivan County Fair Board, 4-H Swine Barn Superintendent and several other association positions. With two adult children, Alan and his wife are afforded the time to enjoy traveling, camping, riding motorcycles and attending Purdue football and basketball games.

• Agricultural and Commercial Lending Officer
• Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University

Email me

Brandon Bennett

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

A valued employee for over six years, Brandon began his banking journey analyzing loan reviews and is currently a Commercial Lending Officer, using his vast knowledge of the industry to best serve his clients with their financial needs. When not spending time with his wife and two daughters, Brandon gives back to the Terre Haute community volunteering with Real Men Read.

• Commercial Lending Officer
• Bachelor of Finance from Indiana State University

Email me

Craig Kirk

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Southern Indiana

A resident of Vincennes, Indiana for 52 years, Craig has engrossed himself into our community as a board chair and board member of too many foundations to list here. His extensive involvement in our community as well as his education and experience in the banking industry provide excellent lending, treasury management and deposit services to our clients. Expanding his knowledge, to better suit the changing industry, Craig has completed the RMA Cash Flow Analysis course as well as the ABA Loan Review certification. An avid sports fan, Craig also enjoys live music, traveling, golf, trout fishing and spending time with his wife and three daughters.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Lending Executive
• BS of Finance from Indiana State University
• Associates Degree Business Administration from Vincennes University

Email me

Lisa Swogger

Vice President, Commercial Lending

Covers: Fort Wayne, IN

A member of the banking industry since 2003, Lisa has continued to excel in her ability to provide comprehensive bank solutions to her clients while obtaining new business and expanding market shares. Dedicated to expanding her banking knowledge, Lisa has completed education in both ABA Commercial Lending School and IBA Leadership Series. A member of the Fort Wayne community since college, Lisa provides a great insight and involvement in the area including serving on several Board of Directors, mentoring for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, a committee member for Light the Night as well as being a licensed foster care family. Not only is Lisa a huge Hoosiers basketball fan, she also takes to the court herself playing for the Fort Wayne Women’s basketball league. Lisa enjoys watching her son play his various sports and spending time with family at the lake and the family farm.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• Alumnus of IBA, Fort Wayne, BA in Business

Email me

Eric Nicholas

Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

A lifelong resident of Rockville, Eric brings his years of experience to overseeing regional loan officers and managing portfolios for his clients. Involved in the community he proudly calls home, Eric also volunteers as a Parke County Youth Soccer Association coach and held former board position roles with the Parks Vermillion Humane Society and Clay County Chamber of Commerce.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Lending Executive
• Bachelor of Science from Indiana State University

Email me

Josh Fern

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Fort Wayne, IN

Josh has spent the last 19 years in Fort Wayne, IN, serving as a commercial loan officer with First Financial Bank. He is involved in the community and is currently the Mental Health America Northeast Indiana Treasurer.

He enjoys spending time with his family and is an avid soccer fan playing with friends and coaching youth soccer in Huntertown. He and his family are also proud members of the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne.

• Commercial lending
• Graduate of the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University
• Currently enrolled in Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin – Madison

Email me

Jim Winning

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

Beginning his career in the “Management Training Program” Jim has worked in all aspects of the banking industry, empowering him with a solid foundation for success in his profession. For over two decades Jim has honed his skills to successfully provide his clients assistance in commercial loans and deposits as well as cross sell other lines of bank business. As solid as his knowledge is in banking, so too is his dedication to his community, as a Vice President and board member of City of Terre Haute – Sanitation Board of Commissioners, committee member and volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce and United Way volunteer for the “Real Men Read” program. A lifelong resident of Terre Haute, Jim spends his free time with his daughter and son, playing golf and enjoying community events.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Indiana State University

Email me

Jonathan Scherle

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

Responsible for solidifying existing and creating new business relationships for the bank, Jon brings a solid level of knowledge to the table. With an impressive level of community involvement, as a member of the Finance Committee for the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Wabash Valley, and St. Joseph’s University Parish, Jon not only contributes to the community, but strengthens his experience and knowledge for commercial lending. When he isn’t concentrating on finance, Jon enjoys spending time with his wife, two girls, being outdoors and coaching his children’s sports teams.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• 15 Years of Banking/Lending Experience
• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Indiana State University
• Credit Risk Certification from Risk Management Association

Email me

Mark Franklin

Chief Lending Officer

Responsible for supporting loan growth initiatives and identifying new markets of opportunity Mark utilizes his expertise and knowledge to continually benefit his clients. Decades in the business combined with community involvement such as his role as Board Member on the Community Foundation of Bloomington Monroe County provide Mark a unique vision into the business of commercial lending in the area. Mark lives with his wife and four children, enjoys the outdoors and avidly cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals and Notre Dame.

• Chief Lending Officer
• Bachelor of Science degree from University of Southern Indiana
• Master of Arts from Ball State University
• Stonier Graduate School of Banking

Email me

Mark Rickelman

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Indiana and Kentucky

Mark’s background in business and marketing has served him well over the past 27 years in his career as Vice President of Commercial Lending. Among his responsibilities of originating and managing quality loan and deposit relationships, he also provides exceptional customer service, collaborates with multiple business units, identifies and manages risk and generates fee income. With continued education and training in Credit Certification and Sales, Mark has expanded his knowledge of his business as well as engaging in community efforts as a member of multiple organizations volunteering his time. Mark enjoys time with his wife and two sons, hunting, fishing, exploring outdoors and being a musician.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration / Marketing Minor from University of Southern Indiana
• Omega UBC/CLSB Credit Certification
• EXSEL Advanced Sales Training

Email me

Matt Baker

Commercial Lending Officer II

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

A Commercial Loan Officer with years of experience in the lending industry and nearly six decades of residence in our community, Matt is the perfect person to help our clients with their business loan needs.

• Commercial Loan Officer
• Bachelor of Science from Indiana State University

Email me

Mike Haag

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Washington, IN

Email me

Mike Lueking

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Sullivan, IN

Mike began his career with First Financial as a summer intern/management trainee and has spent the last couple of decades learning multiple aspects of the banking lending industry. Currently Mike is a lending officer in commercial and agriculture as well as the SCLE/Chairman of the Agricultural Lending Region. An active supporter and volunteer for the local 4-H program, Mike also dedicates his time to several associations including the Sullivan County Ag committee, and as a Deacon/Board member at his Christian Church. Married with two daughters, both of whom attend Purdue, Mike and his family can usually be found cheering on Purdue football or basketball.

• Agriculture Lending Officer and SCLE for the Ag Lending Region
• BA Management/Finance from Krannert School of Business at Purdue University
• Graduate of Indiana Business Association – Ag Lending School and Commercial Lending School

Email me

Tim Robinette

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Evansville, IN

Responsible for generating and managing a portfolio of business and corresponding relationships, producing commercial loans, and engaging prospective clients, Tim utilizes his educational background and decades of experience to provide excellent service. Giving back to his community, Tim is involved in numerous associations, including the Riley Foundation as Chairman for Pike County Indiana and Dean for Mt Olive GB Church. He is married with three grown children and four grandchildren.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending Officer
• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Murray State University
• Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University
• RMA Credit Certified

Email me

Troy Hendricks

Agricultural Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Terre Haute, IN

With his history rich in agriculture, Troy is perfectly positioned in our Commercial division as an Agriculture Lender. His knowledge and experience qualify him to provide the best service to his clients regarding Lines of Credit, Equipment loans, real estate and livestock. Heavily involved in the community, Troy is the Treasurer and Clothe-a-Child Chairman for the Clinton Chamber of Commerce as well as volunteering for numerous other associations. A John Deere collector and member of the International Brick Collectors, Troy also enjoys Nascar, Cardinals baseball and spending time with his wife, son and granddaughter.

• Agricultural Lender
• Purdue Agriculture Short Course

Email me

Chris Munoz

VP | Commercial Banking Relationship Manager

Covers: Indianapolis, IN

Chris Munoz is an accomplished banking professional with a strong connection to Greenwood, IN. With over 20 years of experience, including positions as VP of Banking Development and VP of Business Banking Relationship Manager, Chris brings a wealth of expertise to his work. He is actively involved in community service, serving on the board of the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation. Chris, along with his wife and son, enjoys the vibrant community of Old Towne Greenwood and takes pleasure in tending to their longstanding koi pond. With a commitment to banking, family, and community, Chris is a well-rounded individual dedicated to making a positive impact.

• VP | Commercial Banking Relationship Manager
• Attended Wabash College

Email me

Tyler Fischer

Chief Lending Officer

Covers: Brazil, IN

Tyler helps his business clients evaluate financing options and originates and processes their commercial loans. In the community, he supports business start-ups as president of the Launch Academy Inc. board of directors. He enjoys Notre Dame sports and playing golf. Off the course, he helps his clients avoid the hazards of financing new and existing businesses.

• Commercial Loan Officer
• 11 Years of Banking Experience
• B.A., Economics, DePauw University; MBA, Indiana State University
• Commercial Lending Courses Completed through IBA

Email me

Michael Musolino

Commercial Banking Regional Executive

Covers: Greater Indianapolis

Mike leads growth efforts in Indianapolis while expanding the bank’s market share. He brings more than 25 years of banking industry experience, having served various relationship management roles within Commercial Banking and Wealth Management.

Mike has lived in Carmel, IN since 2004. He is a proud community member and enjoys working with various nonprofit organizations in Central Indiana.

Email me

Brandon Carroll

Commercial Banker

Covers: Carmel, IN

Brandon Carroll is a dedicated and experienced commercial lending officer with a passion for empowering businesses to thrive. Based in Mooresville, IN, Brandon collaborates closely with entrepreneurs, understanding their priorities, and analyzing their cash flow to identify suitable financial solutions. He believes in staying ahead of industry trends and values direct insights from business owners to ensure they receive the best guidance possible. Beyond his professional life, Brandon is an active member of a national non-profit organization that provides temporary safe spaces for families facing challenging circumstances. When not working, Brandon loves exploring new destinations, cherishing quality time with his family, and assisting his spouse in tending their organic food and nature garden.

Email me

Casey Arnold

VP Commercial Banking

Covers: Carmel, IN

Casey Arnold is a seasoned professional excelling in commercial banking business development and relationship management from the Indianapolis LPO office. With strong ties to his hometown, he owns an employee safety training and consulting business. A committed community advocate, Casey serves as an Executive Board Member for the Hamilton County Theatre Guild, Inc., and actively coaches youth soccer and basketball.  He is a devoted husband of 18 years and a proud father to four children.

• Taylor University and Indiana University Kelley School of Business
• Hamilton County Leadership Academy Graduate
• Omega Credit Training
• RMA Commercial Lending School

Email me

Korey Watts

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Evansville, IN

Korey Watt is a valuable member of First Financial Bank’s Commercial Loan department, specializing in helping businesses thrive through strategic financing solutions. With over a decade of banking industry experience, he brings a wealth of experience to the table.

Beyond his finance career, Korey is deeply committed to his community. He actively contributes to organizations like Boys & Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Habitat for Humanity, making a positive impact on the community he serves. In addition, his role as an 8th grade basketball coach at North Middle School in Henderson, KY, demonstrates his dedication to mentorship and fostering teamwork.

• Commercial Loan Officer
• Omega FAL/CLSB Credit training
• American Bankers Association Commercial Lending Certificate

Email me

Jamie Mager

Commercial/Agricultural Lending Officer

Covers: Rockville, IN

Jamie Mager’s focus on nurturing lasting relationships with current and potential clients showcases her commitment to providing tailored financial solutions for businesses. Boasting over two decades of experience in the banking sector, she has been a valued member of First Financial Bank since July 2008, previously holding roles as Assistant Branch Manager and Branch Manager.

Jamie’s dedication extends beyond her professional life, as she cherishes time spent with her three children. Beyond her work, Jamie finds joy in supporting her children’s sports activities, participating in 4-H projects, exploring culinary experiences, and savoring moments outdoors, especially by the creek. Her vibrant and multifaceted life embodies a blend of professional expertise and personal fulfillment.

• Commercial/Agricultural Lending Officer
• RMA Commercial Lending School – 2023
• Property and Casualty Insurance License – 2006
• 4-H leader for Adams Yankees 4-H club

Email me

Travis Huff

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Evansville, IN

With over 15 years of prior banking experience, Travis is a seasoned professional in finance. Having lived in Owensboro for more than 20 years, he uses his experience and knowledge of the area to help businesses grow.

Travis is responsible for originating, underwriting, and closing commercial loans, focusing on tailored solutions for clients.

He and his wife Monica are dog lovers, and share their home with Siberian Husky, Winston, and Golden Doodle, Oliver.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Loan Officer
• Graduated Kentucky Wesleyan College in 2010 with a BA in Accounting and Business Administration

Email me

Brian Overbey

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Murray, KY

As a VP of Commercial Lending, Brian’s deep involvement in the Murray community as well as his nearly four decades of residence here, make him a trusted member of the team to serve clients with their commercial lending needs. Years of additional training in Customer Service, Estate Planning and Mortgage Education in addition to his Business Administration degree just exemplify his abilities in the banking industry. A Deacon at the University Church of Christ, Brian also serves as a Board Member of numerous local associations. A proud husband and father of three, Brian enjoys family time on Kentucky Lake boating and wake-surfing as well riding dirt bikes.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Minor in Ag Science from Murray State University

Email me

Haley Crawford

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Bowling Green, KY

For nearly two decades, Haley has worked in the commercial loan industry, offering experience and knowledge for her clients that rely on her to grow and manage their commercial portfolio. A socially active person, Haley enjoys time with her husband, two children and friends, usually on the water in their boat or kayaking. She also devotes time to the Builders Association of South-Central Kentucky.

• Vice President, Commercial Lending
• Attended Western Kentucky University

Email me

Jeremy Jones

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Bowling Green, KY

Jeremy’s ability to grow and manage commercial clients has been proven over and over with his years of experience in the lending industry and it is only exemplified by his decades of residence in our community. Jeremey volunteers his time at the Kiwanis Club of Bowling Green and as a Board member for WROTE, Inc. When he isn’t enjoying hunting, fishing, football and basketball he can be found at the lake spending quality time with his wife and kids.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Loan Officer
• Graduate School of Banking, Louisiana State University
• BS, Agriculture Business from Western Kentucky University

Email me

Oren Wilson

Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Bowling Green, KY

Years of experience and education are just a couple of reasons Oren succeeds in producing commercial loans, developing business and managing portfolios for our banking clients. Oren has been active in the Bowling Green Builder’s Association for many years and currently serves on the Register Builder’s Committee. A husband and father of three, Oren enjoys spending free time with his family and is an avid waterfowler.

• Vice President, Senior Commercial Lender
• BS Business Management from Western Kentucky University
• Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University

Email me

Bruce Lyles

District President

Covers: Benton, KY

A resident of Marshall County for 50 years, Bruce brings his knowledge of the community along with his vast experience in lending to clients looking for commercial loans. Married for 33 years, Bruce enjoys golfing, being outdoors and spending time with his two daughters. He also involves himself in his community as a member of the Calvert City Airport Board and Benton Lions Club.

• Market President, Commercial Lender
• BS/BA Finance from University of Louisville

Email me

Robert Burrow

District President

Covers: Fulton, KY

If anyone understands loyalty, it is Robert, who is celebrating his 32nd year with us at this bank. That is to say that his experience in Commercial and Agriculture Lending as well as his dedication to our community is an immeasurable asset to our clients. Robert also serves on the Board at the Volunteer Hospital of West Tennessee Healthcare and enjoys time spent with his wife and two children.

• District President
• Business Administration degree from University of Tennessee, Martin
• Graduate of the Mid-South School of Banking

Email me

Michelle Kors

Small Business Commercial Banker

Covers: Hopkinsville, KY

For over 20 years, Michelle has been involved in the commercial lending field, bringing an expertise level of service for her clients. With a focus on small business in addition to business development, her knowledge of commercial loans is a perfect fit for the Commercial Lending branch. Her desire to provide the highest quality of service is illustrated by her impressive number of special training certifications, including Small Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin. Michelle has been a United Way volunteer for 16 years and serves her community through various charities. She loves to spend time with friends, family, being outdoors, boxing, playing golf, softball and cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners.

• Small Business Commercial Banker, Commercial Lending
• MBA in Legal Studies
• CUNA Business Lending Certification and Management School graduate
• Specializes in SBA Lending 7(a) and 504

Email me

Al Miller

Community President

Covers: Murfreesboro, TN

A lifelong resident of Rutherford County, Al has had the great pleasure of providing some of the commercial and residential financing that has attributed to the counties astounding growth. Decades of commercial lending experience as well as continued education and training allow Al a level of expertise beneficial to developing new loan opportunities. His numerous roles in community activities, including Board of Director for Rutherford County, Habitat for Humanity and Discovery Center for Murfreesboro as well as a member of Chamber of Commerce, illustrate is dedication to the area and offer an expert level of knowledge. Living on a small farm with his wife, Al enjoys time riding his two Tennessee Walking horses, hunting, golfing and fishing. A father of four, with one grandson, Al takes great pride is his family and hometown.

• President, Commercial Lending
• Middle Tennessee State University graduate

Email me

Chip Knight

Senior Commercial Lending Executive

Covers: Clarksville, TN

Responsible for leading the Commercial Lending Team for the Mid-South Region, Chip assists lenders with their portfolio, provides guidance and coaching on loan structures, and business growth. His decades of experience and continuing education, including graduating from the Southeastern School of Commercial Lending as well as the School of Banking with the TN Bankers Association, position Chip perfectly in the Commercial Lending industry. A member of the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce, and Director for Southwestern Kentucky EDC, Chip is also a previous member of several organizations involved in the community. During is downtime, Chip may be found cheering on his Tennessee Titans, working in the yard, or playing guitar. He and his wife are parents to five grown children.

• Senior Commercial Lending Executive
• BBA of Finance from Austin Peay State University

Email me

David Vernich

Commercial Lending Officer

Covers: Clarksville, TN

As a Commercial Loan Officer, David oversees managing commercial loan portfolios and originating commercial loans. A long-term resident of Nashville, David gives back to his community as a volunteer with Affordable Housing Projects in Nashville, Clarksville and Memphis TN. When he isn’t travelling the world with his wife, David can be found cheering for the Tennessee Titans and Nashville Predators.

• Commercial Loan Officer
• BA in Liberal Arts from Ambassador College
• MBA from Tennessee State University

Email me

Keith Bennett

District President

Covers: Clarksville, TN

With nearly four decades of experience in the lending industry and an impressive resume of leadership roles, Keith is the perfect person to hold our District President position here in Clarksville. Keith is a dedicated community member, living here for 29 years and volunteering his time to several organizations including as an Executive Committee member for the Clarksville/Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, as well as the County Economic Development Council, Board of Trustee for the Custom House Museum, and Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce. Whatever free time Keith has left is spent with his 2 grown children, golfing, fishing, reading and attending University of Tennessee sporting events.

• 36 years of lending and banking experience
• BS in Business/Accounting from the University of Tennessee-Martin
• Leads the commercial loan sales initiative for Middle Tennessee
• Responsibilities include individual loan production, portfolio growth, and coaching other commercial lenders in Tennessee

Email me

Michael G. Bishop

VP, Commercial Lender

Covers: Nolensville, TN

Michael G. Bishop, Vice President of Commercial Lending at First Financial Bank, brings a wealth of experience from esteemed roles at Servis1st Bank, BB&T, and US Bank. A Nashville resident since 2002, Michael has called Nolensville, TN, home for the past seven years. His dedication extends beyond banking; he’s actively involved with College Grove Recreation, the Heimerdinger Foundation, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Kiwanis. Michael, along with his wife Jessa and four children, Vivienne, Bennett, Michael, and Penelope, cherish their time in Arrington, engaging in local baseball and softball and relishing the outdoors, beach trips, and family gatherings.

• Vice President, Commercial Lender
• Graduated 2004 from Penn State University, Communications Arts and Sciences

Email me

Christian Acosta

VP, Commercial Lender

Covers: Murfreesboro, TN

Since 2011, Christian has carved an impactful path in banking, dedicated to building meaningful relationships with his business clients.

He has lived across the globe from Southern California to Utah and Nebraska, but has called Tennessee home since 2020.

Beyond his banking expertise, he’s deeply involved in community activities in Murfreesboro, notably with Endure Athletics and Kiwanis. Family-oriented and father of three, he also enjoys moments on the ball fields and the occasional golf game.

• Vice President, Commercial Lender
• BA – California State University, Long Beach
• MBA- University of Phoenix

Email me