First Busey Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

First Busey has 10 executives leading key functions including credit operations, wealth management, risk mitigation, financial reporting, communications, and regional market development.

Committed to long-term financial stability and community growth, First Busey delivers comprehensive banking solutions across Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana through a legacy of service dating back to 1868.

Leadership Roles at First Busey

  • Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer - Robert Plecki
  • Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer - Scott Phillips
  • Market President - Jp Hills
  • President - Patrick Bussey
  • Market President - Mary Holm
  • Market President - Jordan Ward
  • Market President - Daniel Dakhil
  • Chief of Staff - Amy Rudolph
  • Chief Risk Officer & Chief Revenue Officer - Thomas Robinson
  • Chief Communications Officer - Kristen Bosch
  • Robert Plecki - Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer

    Robert Plecki, the Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer at First Busey, directs the overarching credit risk framework and operational efficiency of the bank. Overseeing the wealth management division, Plecki architects investment strategies that align with the diverse needs of clients across the Midwest and Florida. This multifaceted leadership role involves balancing rigorous credit underwriting standards with the pursuit of operational excellence to ensure sustainable growth. By integrating wealth management services into the broader banking ecosystem, Plecki drives significant value for the institution. Robert Plecki maintains a focus on optimizing internal processes while simultaneously expanding the reach of wealth advisory services. Through this dual focus on risk management and operational scaling, Plecki secures the financial health of the organization while fostering long-term client relationships across all regional banking centers.
    Robert Plecki

    Scott Phillips - Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer

    Scott Phillips, the Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer at First Busey, oversees the financial integrity and reporting standards of the organization. Managing the accounting department, Phillips ensures that all financial disclosures accurately reflect the performance of the bank across its diverse regional operations. This role involves directing the capital allocation strategy and maintaining rigorous internal controls to support the long-term fiscal health of the institution. Scott Phillips provides critical financial insights to the Board and executive team, enabling informed decision-making regarding investments and operational expenditures. By monitoring the financial landscape in Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana, the Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer maintains the stability of the balance sheet. Through precise accounting practices and strategic financial planning, Phillips supports the overall growth trajectory and ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations.

    Jp Hills - Market President

    Jp Hills, the Market President at First Busey, leads the strategic development and operational success of banking centers within a designated geographic territory. Focusing on local market penetration, Hills drives the growth of commercial and retail banking services by building strong relationships with regional business leaders. This role involves overseeing the performance of local teams and ensuring that the bank's service standards meet the specific needs of the community. Jp Hills coordinates with the broader executive team to implement corporate initiatives while adapting strategies to the unique economic conditions of the assigned market. By fostering a culture of service and excellence, the Market President ensures that the bank remains a primary financial resource for local clients. Through proactive business development and community involvement, Hills expands the bank's footprint and contributes to the overall revenue goals of the institution in the region.

    Patrick Bussey - President

    Patrick Bussey, the President at First Busey, provides executive leadership for the bank's daily operations and long-term strategic vision. Overseeing the execution of corporate goals, Bussey ensures that all departments remain aligned with the mission of providing exceptional financial services across Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana. This role involves collaborating with the C-suite to drive innovation and maintain the competitive edge of the institution in a rapidly evolving banking landscape. Patrick Bussey monitors the performance of regional banking centers and supports the development of new service offerings that meet the changing needs of clients. By fostering a culture of accountability and excellence, the President enables the organization to achieve sustainable growth and operational efficiency. Through consistent leadership and a focus on client-centric banking, Bussey strengthens the market position of the bank and ensures the continued success of the entire enterprise.
    Patrick Bussey

    Mary Holm - Market President

    Mary Holm, the Market President at First Busey, manages the operational and commercial success of banking centers within a specific regional territory. Focusing on the expansion of the bank's client base, Holm directs local business development efforts and ensures that service delivery remains consistent with corporate standards. This role involves analyzing regional market trends to identify opportunities for growth and tailoring banking solutions to meet the needs of local businesses and individuals. Mary Holm coordinates with internal departments to provide comprehensive financial support, ranging from commercial lending to personal banking services. By building strong community ties and maintaining a focus on customer satisfaction, the Market President drives the performance of the assigned territory. Through effective leadership and strategic planning, Holm contributes to the overall success of the bank and ensures that the institution remains a vital financial partner in the region.

    Jordan Ward - Market President

    Jordan Ward, the Market President at First Busey, oversees the growth and operational performance of banking centers within a key regional market. Focusing on the delivery of high-quality financial services, Ward directs the local team to achieve business development targets and enhance client engagement. This role involves identifying unique market opportunities and implementing strategies that align with the bank's broader objectives for expansion and service excellence. Jordan Ward maintains a strong presence in the community, building relationships with local stakeholders to support the bank's reputation and growth. By monitoring the competitive landscape and adjusting local tactics, the Market President ensures that the bank remains a preferred choice for financial services in the area. Through dedicated leadership and a focus on operational efficiency, Ward drives the success of the regional banking centers and contributes to the overall financial health of the institution.

    Daniel Dakhil - Market President

    Daniel Dakhil, the Market President at First Busey, leads the strategic initiatives and daily operations of banking centers within a designated regional market. Focusing on the acquisition of new commercial accounts and the retention of existing clients, Dakhil drives the revenue growth of the territory. This role involves overseeing the performance of local staff and ensuring that all banking activities comply with corporate policies and regulatory requirements. Daniel Dakhil collaborates with other regional leaders to share best practices and implement strategies that enhance the bank's service offerings. By fostering a culture of professional excellence and community engagement, the Market President strengthens the bank's presence in the region. Through proactive management and a focus on delivering tailored financial solutions, Dakhil ensures that the bank meets the diverse needs of the local market and contributes to the long-term success of the organization.

    Amy Rudolph - Chief of Staff

    Amy Rudolph, the Chief of Staff at First Busey, coordinates strategic initiatives and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Managing the flow of information to the C-suite, Rudolph ensures that organizational priorities remain aligned with the long-term mission of the bank. This role involves streamlining decision-making processes and overseeing cross-functional projects that impact operations in Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana. By acting as a central point of contact for internal stakeholders, Amy Rudolph drives organizational cohesion and operational transparency. The Chief of Staff monitors the execution of key business objectives, providing the necessary support to maintain momentum on critical projects. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, Rudolph enables the leadership team to focus on high-impact growth strategies. This position remains vital for maintaining the operational rhythm required to support the expansive geographic footprint of the institution.

    Thomas Robinson - Chief Risk Officer & Chief Revenue Officer

    Thomas Robinson, the Chief Risk Officer & Chief Revenue Officer at First Busey, manages the delicate balance between aggressive revenue generation and prudent risk management. Overseeing the bank's exposure to market volatility, Robinson architects robust risk mitigation strategies that protect the institution's assets across all regional markets. Simultaneously, the Chief Risk Officer & Chief Revenue Officer drives growth by identifying new opportunities for income expansion within the banking centers in Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana. This dual-purpose role requires constant monitoring of economic indicators to ensure that revenue-generating activities remain within established risk tolerances. Thomas Robinson leads the efforts to optimize the balance sheet while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By aligning revenue targets with comprehensive risk assessments, Robinson fosters a culture of disciplined growth. This leadership approach ensures that the bank remains resilient while pursuing competitive market share in the financial services sector.

    Kristen Bosch - Chief Communications Officer

    Kristen Bosch, the Chief Communications Officer at First Busey, directs the internal and external messaging strategy to reinforce the bank's reputation as a trusted financial partner. Overseeing brand identity and public relations, Bosch ensures that the mission of the institution resonates with clients across Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and Indiana. This role involves crafting clear, consistent narratives that highlight the bank's commitment to community service and financial excellence. By managing communication channels, Kristen Bosch facilitates engagement with stakeholders and supports the broader marketing objectives of the organization. The Chief Communications Officer works closely with other executives to ensure that corporate messaging aligns with strategic business goals. Through the development of comprehensive communication plans, Bosch enhances the visibility of the bank's services and strengthens the connection between the institution and the communities served. This leadership function remains essential for maintaining brand trust and supporting growth initiatives.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First Busey Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads First Busey?
    First Busey is led by Robert Plecki (Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Scott Phillips (Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer) and Jp Hills (Market President).
    Who is part of First Busey’s executive team?
    The executive team of First Busey includes leaders such as Robert Plecki (Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer), Scott Phillips (Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer), Jp Hills (Market President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First Busey have?
    First Busey has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First Busey’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First Busey includes roles such as Chief Credit Officer & Chief Operating Officer & Busey Wealth Management President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Interim Chief Financial Officer & Chief Accounting Officer, Market President, President, Market President.