Leadership Overview
First Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including corporate strategy, financial oversight, regional market development, and local banking operations.
Committed to regional economic growth, First Bank delivers tailored financial solutions to individuals and small to medium-sized businesses across North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina.
Committed to regional economic growth, First Bank delivers tailored financial solutions to individuals and small to medium-sized businesses across North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina.
Leadership Roles at First Bank
Suzanne DeFerie - President & Chief Executive Officer
Suzanne DeFerie, the President & Chief Executive Officer at First Bank, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational trajectory of the organization. DeFerie manages the alignment of banking products with the specific needs of small to medium-sized businesses throughout North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina. By coordinating with the Board and senior leadership, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that capital allocation supports sustainable growth and long-term stability. Suzanne DeFerie maintains a focus on expanding market presence while upholding rigorous risk management standards across all regional branches. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the competitive landscape to maintain the institution's reputation for service excellence. Through the implementation of efficient operational frameworks, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives the company toward achieving its primary financial objectives while fostering strong relationships with local communities and stakeholders.
Elizabeth Bostian - Chief Financial Officer
Elizabeth Bostian, the Chief Financial Officer at First Bank, oversees the integrity of financial reporting and the optimization of the balance sheet. Bostian manages the fiscal health of the institution, ensuring that all banking products remain profitable while serving the diverse needs of individuals and businesses in the Carolinas. The Chief Financial Officer monitors liquidity, capital adequacy, and regulatory compliance to protect the interests of shareholders and depositors. Elizabeth Bostian collaborates with executive leadership to forecast economic trends and adjust financial strategies accordingly. By analyzing performance metrics across various regional markets, the Chief Financial Officer identifies opportunities for cost efficiency and revenue enhancement. This critical role requires precise management of financial assets and liabilities to support the broader mission of the bank. Through disciplined oversight, Bostian secures the financial foundation necessary for continued expansion and service delivery within the target geographic footprint.
Bill Richmond - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Bill Richmond, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at First Bank, manages the complex financial infrastructure required to support regional banking operations. Richmond focuses on the strategic deployment of capital to enhance the suite of services provided to small and medium-sized enterprises. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer evaluates investment opportunities and risk profiles to ensure the institution maintains a competitive edge in North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina. Bill Richmond coordinates with other senior leaders to integrate financial planning with operational goals, driving efficiency across all departments. By overseeing the treasury functions and financial reporting processes, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer provides the transparency and data necessary for informed decision-making. This leadership position involves constant monitoring of market volatility to safeguard the bank's assets. Through rigorous financial analysis, Richmond supports the long-term viability and growth of the organization.
David Forrest - Market President & Senior VP (Carteret County)
David Forrest, the Market President & Senior VP (Carteret County) at First Bank, oversees all banking activities and client relationships within the specific Carteret County market. Forrest manages the local team to ensure that individuals and businesses receive high-quality financial services tailored to the local economy. The Market President & Senior VP (Carteret County) drives business development initiatives, focusing on expanding the bank's footprint and increasing market share. David Forrest collaborates with regional leadership to implement corporate strategies while maintaining the flexibility to address local market nuances. By building deep connections with community leaders and business owners, the Market President & Senior VP (Carteret County) enhances the bank's visibility and trust. This role requires a deep understanding of the local economic landscape to effectively manage credit risk and service delivery. Through proactive leadership, Forrest ensures that the bank remains the preferred financial partner for the local community.
Robert Patterson - Regional President
Robert Patterson, the Regional President at First Bank, directs the strategic operations and business development efforts across a broad geographic region. Patterson manages the performance of multiple branches, ensuring that each location meets the high standards of service expected by individual and business clients. The Regional President coordinates with city executives to align local activities with the overarching corporate mission. Robert Patterson analyzes regional economic data to guide lending decisions and product distribution strategies. By overseeing the professional development of branch staff, the Regional President cultivates a culture of excellence and customer-centricity. This leadership role involves managing the intersection of corporate policy and local market demands to maximize profitability and growth. Through consistent engagement with the regional business community, Patterson strengthens the bank's competitive position. The Regional President ensures that all operations contribute effectively to the bank's goal of supporting regional economic development.
Paul Seward - Regional Executive
Paul Seward, the Regional Executive at First Bank, directs the growth and performance of banking operations across designated territories in North Carolina. Seward manages the delivery of financial products to local businesses, ensuring that service standards align with the specific economic requirements of the region. The Regional Executive coordinates with branch managers to optimize customer acquisition and retention strategies. Paul Seward monitors regional market trends to identify potential growth sectors and adjust service offerings accordingly. By fostering strong community ties, the Regional Executive strengthens the bank's presence and reputation among local entrepreneurs and individual clients. This leadership role involves balancing operational efficiency with the need for personalized service in a competitive banking environment. Through the effective management of regional resources, Seward drives the expansion of the loan portfolio and deposit base, contributing directly to the overall success of the institution within the broader market.
Bruce Mullis - City Executive
Bruce Mullis, the City Executive at First Bank, manages the daily operations and client engagement strategies within a specific city market. Mullis focuses on delivering personalized banking solutions to local individuals and small businesses, ensuring that the bank's services meet the unique needs of the community. The City Executive drives local business development by identifying new opportunities for growth and fostering relationships with key stakeholders. Bruce Mullis coordinates with regional leadership to ensure that corporate initiatives are executed effectively at the local level. By maintaining a strong presence in the local business community, the City Executive enhances the bank's reputation and customer loyalty. This role involves managing local credit portfolios and ensuring that service delivery remains efficient and responsive. Through dedicated leadership, Mullis supports the bank's mission of providing accessible and reliable financial services, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the city and its surrounding areas.
Dawn Carter - Regional Executive
Dawn Carter, the Regional Executive at First Bank, oversees the operational success and market expansion efforts within assigned territories. Carter manages the implementation of banking strategies designed to serve the diverse needs of individuals and small to medium-sized businesses. The Regional Executive coordinates with branch teams to ensure consistent service quality and operational efficiency across the region. Dawn Carter analyzes market performance metrics to refine business development tactics and improve customer satisfaction. By engaging with local business leaders, the Regional Executive identifies emerging opportunities and addresses specific regional challenges. This leadership role requires a focus on both short-term performance and long-term growth, ensuring that the bank remains a vital part of the local economy. Through effective resource management and strategic planning, Carter drives the expansion of the bank's client base and strengthens its competitive standing within the broader North Carolina and South Carolina markets.
Lee Watson - City Executive
Lee Watson, the City Executive at First Bank, directs the local banking operations and client relationship management within a designated city. Watson focuses on providing tailored financial products to individuals and small businesses, ensuring that the bank's services align with local economic conditions. The City Executive manages local business development efforts, seeking to expand the bank's reach and increase its market share. Lee Watson collaborates with regional leadership to implement corporate strategies while maintaining a focus on local community needs. By building strong relationships with local entrepreneurs and residents, the City Executive enhances the bank's brand and customer loyalty. This role involves overseeing local lending activities and ensuring that service delivery is both efficient and effective. Through proactive engagement and leadership, Watson supports the bank's mission of fostering economic growth and providing reliable financial solutions to the community, ensuring the bank remains a trusted partner for all clients.
Kevin Bunn - City Executive
Kevin Bunn, the City Executive at First Bank, manages the local branch operations and client service initiatives within a specific city market. Bunn focuses on delivering high-quality banking products to individuals and small to medium-sized businesses, ensuring that the bank's services meet the specific needs of the local economy. The City Executive drives business development by identifying new opportunities and fostering strong relationships with community members. Kevin Bunn coordinates with regional leadership to ensure that corporate goals are met while maintaining a focus on local market nuances. By actively participating in the local business community, the City Executive enhances the bank's visibility and reputation. This role involves managing local credit portfolios and ensuring that service delivery remains responsive and efficient. Through dedicated leadership, Bunn supports the bank's mission of providing accessible financial services, contributing to the overall economic health and development of the city and its surrounding region.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team
