First International Bank Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

First International Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and regional operations.

Driven by a commitment to community banking, First International Bank focuses on providing comprehensive financial services and maintaining its position as an equal housing lender since its founding in 1910.

Leadership Roles at First International Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Peter Stenehjem
  • Chief Financial Officer - Dana Hensley
  • Branch President - Travis Braunagel
  • President - Mandan, ND - Dana Petersen
  • Branch President - Melissa Anderson
  • President - Kelly Peterson
  • President (West, Fargo) - Troy Ott
  • President - Jef Cichos
  • President - Shaun Jeffs
  • Regional President, Arizona - Benjamin Danner
  • Peter Stenehjem - Chief Executive Officer

    Peter Stenehjem, the Chief Executive Officer at First International Bank, directs the overall strategic vision and operational framework for the full-service independent community bank. Stenehjem guides the institution's expansion and service delivery, ensuring alignment with its founding principles as an equal housing lender. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of integrity and customer-centricity across all banking functions. Overseeing key initiatives, Peter Stenehjem drives the bank's growth and market presence from its headquarters in Watford City, North Dakota. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include managing stakeholder relations and ensuring the long-term financial health and stability of the organization. Stenehjem's executive oversight extends to all departments, guaranteeing cohesive execution of the bank's mission to serve its community effectively.
    Peter Stenehjem

    Dana Hensley - Chief Financial Officer

    Dana Hensley, the Chief Financial Officer at First International Bank, manages the institution's financial health and fiscal strategy. Hensley oversees all accounting operations, financial planning, and risk management activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for a full-service independent community bank. This critical role involves optimizing capital allocation and driving profitability through sound financial stewardship. Dana Hensley directs the budgeting process and provides essential financial insights to support executive decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes managing investor relations and securing funding to support the bank's growth objectives. By meticulously analyzing financial data, Hensley ensures the bank's financial integrity and sustainable development, contributing directly to its status as an equal housing lender.

    Travis Braunagel - Branch President

    Travis Braunagel, the Branch President at First International Bank, leads operational execution and customer engagement within a designated branch territory. Braunagel ensures the delivery of comprehensive financial services, upholding the bank's commitment as an equal housing lender. This position involves managing branch staff, driving local business development, and maintaining high standards of service quality. Travis Braunagel oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives at the branch level, fostering strong community relationships. The Branch President's responsibilities include achieving performance targets and ensuring regulatory adherence within the assigned region. Braunagel's leadership contributes to the bank's overall success by strengthening its local presence and client base.

    Dana Petersen - President - Mandan, ND

    Dana Petersen, the President - Mandan, ND at First International Bank, directs all banking operations and strategic growth within the Mandan, North Dakota region. Petersen champions the bank's mission as a full-service independent community bank and equal housing lender, focusing on local market needs. This leadership role encompasses managing branch performance, cultivating client relationships, and ensuring operational excellence. Dana Petersen oversees the development and execution of regional business plans, driving revenue growth and market share. The President - Mandan, ND's responsibilities include leading the local team, fostering a customer-centric environment, and ensuring compliance with all banking regulations. Petersen's dedicated focus strengthens the bank's presence and impact in the Mandan community.
    Dana Petersen

    Melissa Anderson - Branch President

    Melissa Anderson, the Branch President at First International Bank, spearheads branch operations and client service initiatives. Anderson ensures the consistent delivery of the bank's full-service offerings, reinforcing its standing as an equal housing lender. This role involves leading branch teams, cultivating local business partnerships, and driving customer satisfaction. Melissa Anderson oversees the implementation of strategic directives within the branch, focusing on achieving key performance indicators. The Branch President's duties include managing staff development, ensuring adherence to operational policies, and contributing to the bank's community outreach efforts. Anderson's leadership enhances the bank's local market penetration and client loyalty.

    Kelly Peterson - President

    Kelly Peterson, the President at First International Bank, oversees significant operational segments and strategic development initiatives for the institution. Peterson ensures the bank's continued adherence to its role as a full-service independent community bank and equal housing lender. This executive position involves guiding departmental performance, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and driving key business objectives. Kelly Peterson directs the implementation of growth strategies and operational efficiencies across assigned areas. The President's responsibilities include managing complex projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and contributing to the bank's overall financial stability and market reputation. Peterson's leadership is pivotal in advancing the bank's strategic goals.

    Troy Ott - President (West, Fargo)

    Troy Ott, the President (West, Fargo) at First International Bank, leads banking operations and market development in the western Fargo region. Ott ensures the delivery of comprehensive financial services, upholding the bank's commitment as an equal housing lender. This role involves managing branch teams, cultivating client relationships, and driving local economic engagement. Troy Ott oversees the execution of regional business strategies, focusing on expanding market reach and customer base. The President (West, Fargo)'s responsibilities include achieving performance targets, ensuring operational integrity, and contributing to the bank's community-focused initiatives. Ott's leadership strengthens the bank's presence and service delivery in the Fargo area.
    Troy Ott

    Jef Cichos - President

    Jef Cichos, the President at First International Bank, directs key operational functions and strategic planning for the organization. Cichos ensures the bank's continued commitment to its principles as a full-service independent community bank and equal housing lender. This executive capacity involves overseeing departmental performance, enhancing service delivery, and achieving organizational objectives. Jef Cichos guides the implementation of strategic initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and client satisfaction. The President's responsibilities include managing critical projects, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and contributing to the bank's sustained growth and market standing. Cichos's executive guidance is essential for the bank's operational success.

    Shaun Jeffs - President

    Shaun Jeffs, the President at First International Bank, oversees critical operational areas and drives strategic growth initiatives. Jeffs reinforces the bank's identity as a full-service independent community bank and equal housing lender. This leadership position involves managing team performance, fostering client loyalty, and ensuring the effective execution of banking services. Shaun Jeffs directs the implementation of strategies designed to enhance operational effectiveness and client engagement. The President's responsibilities include overseeing key projects, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks, and contributing to the bank's overall financial strength and market position. Jeffs's executive oversight is vital for the bank's ongoing development.

    Benjamin Danner - Regional President, Arizona

    Benjamin Danner, the Regional President, Arizona at First International Bank, leads all banking operations and market expansion within Arizona. Danner ensures the bank's full-service independent community banking model and equal housing lender commitment are effectively represented in the region. This role involves managing regional staff, developing local business opportunities, and enhancing customer relationships. Benjamin Danner oversees the execution of strategic plans tailored to the Arizona market, driving growth and service excellence. The Regional President, Arizona's responsibilities include achieving regional financial targets, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering strong community ties. Danner's leadership is instrumental in establishing and growing the bank's presence in Arizona.

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

    Who leads First International Bank?
    First International Bank is led by Peter Stenehjem (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Dana Hensley (Chief Financial Officer) and Travis Braunagel (Branch President).
    Who is part of First International Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of First International Bank includes leaders such as Peter Stenehjem (Chief Executive Officer), Dana Hensley (Chief Financial Officer), Travis Braunagel (Branch President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First International Bank have?
    First International Bank has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First International Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First International Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Branch President, President - Mandan, ND, Branch President.