First Merchants Bank Executive and Leadership Team

Chad Kimball, the Chief Operating Officer at First Merchants Bank, manages the daily operational infrastructure required to deliver seamless financial services. Kimball architects efficient workflows that integrate banking products with client-facing delivery channels. Overseeing the bank's internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that all departments function in harmony to meet regulatory standards and performance benchmarks. Chad Kimball drives initiatives focused on process automation and service quality, which directly enhances the customer experience across the institution's regional network. By streamlining administrative functions, the Chief Operating Officer supports the bank's ability to scale operations effectively. Kimball collaborates with other senior leaders to implement technology-driven solutions that improve operational agility. This role involves constant monitoring of service delivery metrics to maintain high standards of efficiency. Ultimately, Kimball secures the operational foundation necessary for the bank to provide consistent value to its diverse client base.

Scott Casbon, the Market President - Community Banking at First Merchants Bank, leads local engagement strategies to foster strong relationships within the community banking sector. Casbon oversees the delivery of personalized financial services tailored to the specific needs of local businesses and individual clients. The Market President - Community Banking drives growth by identifying unique opportunities for lending and deposit acquisition within the bank's primary service areas. Scott Casbon coordinates with regional teams to ensure that community-focused initiatives align with the bank's overarching mission of financial empowerment. By maintaining a deep understanding of local economic conditions, Casbon optimizes the bank's outreach efforts and service accessibility. This leadership role involves building trust with stakeholders and ensuring that community banking operations remain responsive to market shifts. Through dedicated local management, Casbon strengthens the bank's reputation as a pillar of financial support for the communities served.

Gretchen Eyler, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, directs commercial banking operations and business development within the assigned market territory. Eyler oversees the expansion of the bank's loan portfolio and deposit base by cultivating relationships with corporate clients and local enterprises. The Market President drives revenue growth through the strategic application of financial products designed to meet the specific requirements of the regional market. Gretchen Eyler collaborates with internal teams to ensure that service delivery remains consistent with the bank's high standards of excellence. By analyzing local market dynamics, Eyler identifies emerging sectors for potential investment and partnership. This leadership role involves managing client portfolios and ensuring that the bank's financial solutions provide tangible value to regional businesses. Through proactive market management, Eyler secures the bank's position as a primary financial partner for organizations seeking growth and stability.

Kirk Klabunde, the President, Market (Indianapolis) at First Merchants Bank, manages the bank's strategic presence and operational performance within the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Klabunde oversees the execution of regional business plans that focus on increasing market share and enhancing client satisfaction. The President, Market (Indianapolis) drives the development of local banking initiatives that leverage the bank's full suite of financial services. Kirk Klabunde coordinates with regional staff to ensure that all operations meet the specific demands of the urban financial landscape. By fostering relationships with key community leaders and business owners, Klabunde strengthens the bank's local influence. This leadership role involves monitoring regional economic performance and adjusting strategies to maintain a competitive edge. Through effective market oversight, Klabunde ensures that the bank remains a leading provider of financial solutions for the diverse needs of the Indianapolis market.

Michael Irvin, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, directs the strategic growth and operational success of the bank's retail and commercial banking activities in the assigned region. Irvin oversees the implementation of customer-centric banking programs that drive loyalty and long-term financial engagement. The Market President architects local marketing and sales strategies to increase the bank's visibility and service adoption. Michael Irvin manages a team of banking professionals to ensure that all client interactions reflect the bank's commitment to quality and integrity. By analyzing regional performance data, Irvin identifies areas for operational improvement and service expansion. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of individual depositors with the requirements of local business clients. Through consistent focus on regional market development, Irvin supports the bank's broader objective of providing comprehensive financial solutions to the communities it serves.

James York, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, leads the regional execution of the bank's financial services strategy. York oversees the management of local branch operations and ensures that all staff members provide high-quality financial guidance to clients. The Market President drives the expansion of the bank's service offerings by identifying specific regional needs and tailoring solutions accordingly. James York coordinates with other market leaders to share best practices and improve overall institutional performance. By maintaining a strong presence in the local business community, York builds lasting partnerships that contribute to the bank's growth. This leadership role involves overseeing the financial health of the market territory and ensuring that all activities align with the bank's core values. Through dedicated regional management, York ensures that the bank remains a trusted and effective financial partner for local residents and businesses.

Jeff Parsons, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, directs the strategic operations and business development efforts within the assigned market area. Parsons oversees the delivery of specialized financial products that support the economic development of the region. The Market President drives the bank's local growth strategy by identifying new opportunities for lending and wealth management services. Jeff Parsons manages the performance of local teams to ensure that all client needs are met with precision and professionalism. By engaging with local stakeholders, Parsons strengthens the bank's position as a key financial resource. This leadership role involves monitoring regional market trends and adapting the bank's approach to maintain a competitive advantage. Through consistent focus on regional excellence, Parsons supports the bank's mission of providing reliable and innovative financial solutions to the communities it serves.

Daryl Pomranke, the Regional President at First Merchants Bank, manages the overarching strategy and operational performance across multiple market territories. Pomranke oversees the alignment of regional goals with the bank's corporate objectives to ensure consistent service delivery. The Regional President drives the implementation of large-scale financial initiatives that enhance the bank's market presence. Daryl Pomranke coordinates with various market presidents to optimize resource allocation and improve operational efficiency across the region. By analyzing broad economic trends, Pomranke identifies opportunities for expansion and service improvement. This leadership role involves providing guidance to local teams and ensuring that all regional activities support the bank's long-term growth. Through effective regional oversight, Pomranke ensures that the bank maintains its commitment to providing high-quality financial solutions to a diverse and growing client base.

Stephan Fluhler, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer at First Merchants Bank, directs the technological strategy and digital transformation of the institution. Fluhler oversees the development of secure banking platforms and robust data infrastructure that protect client assets while enabling modern financial transactions. The Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer architects cybersecurity protocols to mitigate digital risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Stephan Fluhler drives the integration of advanced analytics to improve decision-making processes across the bank. By managing the IT department, Fluhler ensures that all digital tools remain reliable and scalable for the bank's growing customer base. This leadership role involves coordinating with other executives to align technology investments with the bank's broader financial objectives. Through continuous innovation in digital banking, Fluhler supports the institution's commitment to providing accessible and secure financial solutions for all clients.

Frederick Fordon, the Managing Director at First Merchants Bank, directs high-level strategic initiatives to expand the institution's financial footprint. Fordon oversees complex capital allocation processes and ensures alignment between long-term investment goals and the bank's core mission of providing robust financial solutions. By analyzing market trends across the Midwest, the Managing Director identifies growth opportunities that strengthen the bank's competitive position. Frederick Fordon maintains close collaboration with the executive board to refine corporate governance and risk management frameworks. This leadership role involves optimizing internal resource distribution to support sustainable growth. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance, Fordon drives operational excellence and ensures the bank remains a trusted partner for clients seeking reliable financial services. The Managing Director consistently evaluates economic indicators to adjust institutional strategy, thereby securing the bank's future stability and market relevance.