First Bank Executive and Leadership Team

Ronald Earnest, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Bank, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Overseeing all major business units, Ronald Earnest ensures alignment with the company's mission of serving individuals and small to medium-sized businesses. This leadership role involves driving financial performance and market expansion within North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina. By optimizing resource allocation and fostering a culture of accountability, Earnest directly impacts the bank's growth and stability. Ultimately, Earnest secures long-term strategic positioning and shareholder value.

Suzanne DeFerie, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Bank, spearheads the strategic vision and comprehensive business development initiatives. Guiding the executive team, Suzanne DeFerie ensures the delivery of robust banking products and services tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses. This critical position involves navigating market dynamics and driving innovation across all operational facets. By cultivating key stakeholder relationships and championing operational excellence, DeFerie directly contributes to the bank's sustained success. Ultimately, DeFerie solidifies First Bank's reputation as a trusted financial partner.

Elizabeth Bostian, the Chief Financial Officer at First Bank, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing accounting, treasury, and financial planning, Elizabeth Bostian ensures the fiscal health and integrity of the organization. This role involves rigorous financial analysis, risk management, and capital allocation to support the bank's growth objectives in North Carolina and South Carolina. By maintaining strong financial controls and reporting, Bostian directly supports strategic decision-making and investor confidence. Ultimately, Bostian safeguards the bank's financial stability and optimizes profitability.

David Forrest, the Market President & Senior VP (Carteret County) at First Bank, leads regional market development and client relations within Carteret County. Directing local banking operations and business development efforts, David Forrest ensures the delivery of tailored financial solutions to individuals and businesses in the area. This position involves cultivating strong community ties and driving market share growth. By fostering local economic engagement and overseeing branch performance, Forrest directly impacts the bank's regional presence and customer satisfaction. Ultimately, Forrest strengthens First Bank's position within the Carteret County market.

Robert Patterson, the Regional President at First Bank, oversees banking operations and strategic growth across designated regions. Directing market activities and team performance, Robert Patterson ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality banking products and services. This leadership function involves managing regional P&L, identifying new business opportunities, and maintaining strong client relationships. By driving operational efficiency and market penetration, Patterson directly contributes to the bank's expansion goals. Ultimately, Patterson solidifies First Bank's regional footprint and financial performance.

Lee Watson, the City Executive at First Bank, spearheads business development and client engagement within a specific city market. Managing local banking relationships and strategic initiatives, Lee Watson ensures the effective deployment of financial services to meet community needs. This role focuses on expanding the bank's client base and enhancing service delivery. By fostering strong local partnerships and driving revenue growth, Watson directly contributes to the bank's urban market penetration. Ultimately, Watson strengthens First Bank's presence and impact within the designated city.

John Long, the Regional Executive at First Bank, directs strategic initiatives and operational oversight for key geographic regions. Overseeing market performance and business expansion, John Long ensures the effective implementation of the bank's service model. This position involves cultivating relationships with regional stakeholders and driving growth in loan and deposit portfolios. By optimizing regional strategies and team leadership, Long directly enhances the bank's market reach. Ultimately, Long strengthens First Bank's competitive position and financial outcomes within the assigned territories.

Susan Blackwelder, the City Executive at First Bank, leads local market strategy and client acquisition efforts within a key urban area. Directing sales initiatives and relationship management, Susan Blackwelder ensures the bank's financial products and services effectively serve the city's residents and businesses. This role emphasizes building strong community ties and driving market penetration. By fostering local economic development and overseeing branch operations, Blackwelder directly contributes to the bank's growth objectives. Ultimately, Blackwelder enhances First Bank's brand recognition and client loyalty in the city.

Bruce Mullis, the City Executive at First Bank, drives business development and client relationship management within a specific city. Overseeing local market strategies and team performance, Bruce Mullis ensures the effective delivery of banking solutions to individuals and businesses. This position focuses on expanding the bank's customer base and enhancing service offerings. By cultivating strategic partnerships and promoting financial literacy, Mullis directly supports the bank's community engagement. Ultimately, Mullis strengthens First Bank's presence and market share within the city.

Dawn Carter, the Regional Executive at First Bank, directs strategic planning and operational execution across multiple regions. Overseeing market expansion and performance metrics, Dawn Carter ensures the consistent delivery of the bank's core financial services. This role involves managing regional teams, identifying growth opportunities, and fostering strong client relationships. By driving regional initiatives and optimizing resource deployment, Carter directly contributes to the bank's overall financial objectives. Ultimately, Carter enhances First Bank's competitive standing and market penetration in its service areas.