First Financial Bank Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

First Financial Bank has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, marketing, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to community banking, First Financial Bank provides comprehensive financial solutions, fostering economic growth through personalized lending and depositor services across Indiana.

Leadership Roles at First Financial Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Elizabeth Palmer
  • Chief Executive Officer & President - John Owen
  • Chief Financial Officer - Rodger McHargue
  • President - Cara Roberson
  • President - Glenn Hasell
  • President - Samuel Swafford
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Dennis Rhee
  • Elizabeth Palmer - Chief Executive Officer

    Elizabeth Palmer, the Chief Executive Officer at First Financial Bank, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Palmer's leadership ensures the bank's financial products, including consumer loans, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit, align with market demands and regulatory requirements. Overseeing all major business units, Palmer drives initiatives that enhance customer value and expand the bank's reach within Indiana. This executive role involves close collaboration with the board of directors to set long-term financial objectives and maintain robust corporate governance. By focusing on sustainable growth and operational efficiency, Elizabeth Palmer solidifies First Financial Bank's position as a trusted financial institution. The strategic direction set by Palmer guides the bank's expansion into new service areas and strengthens its commitment to depositor services.
    Elizabeth Palmer

    John Owen - Chief Executive Officer & President

    John Owen, the Chief Executive Officer & President at First Financial Bank, spearheads the strategic vision and operational management of the entire organization. Owen's dual role encompasses driving growth initiatives, fostering innovation in financial services, and ensuring seamless execution across all departments. This leadership position involves direct oversight of key functions such as mortgage and consumer lending, lease financing, and trust account services. John Owen works closely with executive teams to identify market opportunities and develop strategies that enhance customer acquisition and retention. The President's responsibilities include representing the bank in significant business dealings and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders. Through strategic leadership, John Owen ensures First Financial Bank consistently delivers exceptional value and maintains its reputation for financial integrity and customer-centricity.

    Rodger McHargue - Chief Financial Officer

    Rodger McHargue, the Chief Financial Officer at First Financial Bank, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. McHargue directs all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This role is critical in overseeing the bank's capital structure, managing investment strategies, and optimizing profitability across all service lines, from consumer lending to trust account services. Rodger McHargue collaborates with executive leadership to develop financial models that support business growth and mitigate risk. The CFO's oversight extends to treasury functions and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources to support initiatives like mortgage and lease financing. By maintaining rigorous financial discipline, Rodger McHargue safeguards the bank's assets and drives long-term shareholder value.
    Rodger McHargue

    Cara Roberson - President

    Cara Roberson, the President at First Financial Bank, drives operational excellence and strategic growth across key banking divisions. Roberson's leadership focuses on enhancing the delivery of financial services, including mortgage and consumer lending, lease financing, and trust account services, ensuring alignment with the bank's mission. This executive role involves overseeing regional performance, fostering a culture of customer service, and implementing best practices to optimize efficiency. Cara Roberson collaborates with other senior leaders to identify opportunities for market expansion and product innovation. The President's responsibilities include managing relationships with key partners and ensuring the bank's operations meet the evolving needs of its clientele. By championing strategic initiatives, Cara Roberson contributes significantly to First Financial Bank's sustained success and community impact.

    Glenn Hasell - President

    Glenn Hasell, the President at First Financial Bank, directs strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the bank's service offerings and market presence. Hasell's focus includes overseeing the development and implementation of new financial products, such as innovative loan programs and enhanced depositor services, to meet diverse customer needs. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with commercial clients and driving growth in areas like lease financing and trust account services. Glenn Hasell collaborates with the executive team to ensure operational efficiency and regulatory compliance across all banking functions. The President's role emphasizes strategic planning for long-term sustainability and market leadership. Through dedicated leadership, Glenn Hasell reinforces First Financial Bank's commitment to providing exceptional financial solutions and supporting economic development.
    Glenn Hasell

    Samuel Swafford - President

    Samuel Swafford, the President at First Financial Bank, leads strategic efforts to enhance customer experience and operational effectiveness across the institution. Swafford's purview includes overseeing the delivery of core banking services, such as consumer loans, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit, ensuring they meet high standards of quality and accessibility. This executive role involves driving initiatives that promote financial literacy and provide tailored solutions for mortgage and consumer lending needs. Samuel Swafford works closely with department heads to streamline processes and implement innovative technologies that improve service delivery. The President's focus also extends to cultivating a strong organizational culture centered on integrity and customer satisfaction. Through strategic oversight, Samuel Swafford strengthens First Financial Bank's reputation and market position.

    Dennis Rhee - Chief Marketing Officer

    Dennis Rhee, the Chief Marketing Officer at First Financial Bank, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. Rhee directs all promotional activities, advertising campaigns, and digital marketing efforts designed to attract new customers and deepen relationships with existing ones for services like loans, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit. This executive role involves analyzing market trends, identifying target demographics, and developing compelling messaging that resonates with consumers and businesses. Dennis Rhee oversees the marketing budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources to achieve measurable results in customer acquisition and market share growth. Collaboration with sales and product development teams is essential to align marketing initiatives with the bank's overall business objectives. Through innovative marketing approaches, Dennis Rhee strengthens First Financial Bank's competitive position.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First Financial Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads First Financial Bank?
    First Financial Bank is led by Elizabeth Palmer (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Owen (Chief Executive Officer & President) and Rodger McHargue (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of First Financial Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of First Financial Bank includes leaders such as Elizabeth Palmer (Chief Executive Officer), John Owen (Chief Executive Officer & President), Rodger McHargue (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First Financial Bank have?
    First Financial Bank has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First Financial Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First Financial Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & President, Chief Financial Officer, President, President.