First Merchants Bank Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

First Merchants Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, human resources, and regional market management.

Committed to delivering comprehensive financial solutions, First Merchants Bank prioritizes community-focused banking excellence and long-term economic stability for clients across the Midwest region.

Leadership Roles at First Merchants Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mark Hardwick
  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Thomas Prisby
  • Chief Operating Officer - Chad Kimball
  • President, Michigan - Terri Cable
  • Market President - James York
  • Eastern Region President - Bob Bell
  • President, Market (Indianapolis) - Kirk Klabunde
  • Market President - Jeff Parsons
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer - Stephan Fluhler
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer - Steven Harris
  • Mark Hardwick - Chief Executive Officer

    Mark Hardwick, the Chief Executive Officer at First Merchants Bank, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term financial trajectory of the institution. Hardwick oversees the alignment of banking services with evolving market demands while maintaining rigorous regulatory compliance standards. By fostering strong relationships with the Board, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all operational initiatives support sustainable growth and shareholder value. Mark Hardwick drives the expansion of financial solutions across the Midwest, focusing on delivering personalized service to diverse client segments. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the competitive landscape to identify new opportunities for market penetration. Through disciplined capital allocation and a focus on operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the bank's position as a premier financial partner. Ultimately, Hardwick secures the future of the organization by prioritizing client trust and institutional integrity in every strategic decision.
    Mark Hardwick

    Thomas Prisby - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Prisby, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at First Merchants Bank, governs the strategic vision and board-level oversight of the entire financial institution. Prisby architects the high-level governance framework that guides the bank's commitment to community-based financial services. By coordinating with executive leadership, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer ensures that corporate policies remain consistent with the mission of providing robust financial solutions. Thomas Prisby drives the long-term planning process, focusing on market stability and the enhancement of the bank's regional footprint. This leadership role involves balancing fiduciary responsibilities with the pursuit of innovative banking products that meet modern consumer needs. Through active engagement with stakeholders, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer maintains the reputation of the bank as a reliable pillar of the financial sector. Prisby consistently monitors economic indicators to adjust the strategic direction, ensuring the organization remains resilient against market volatility.

    Chad Kimball - Chief Operating Officer

    Chad Kimball, the Chief Operating Officer at First Merchants Bank, manages the daily execution of internal business processes and operational workflows. Kimball optimizes the delivery of financial services by streamlining administrative functions and enhancing service efficiency across all branches. By collaborating with department heads, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that operational capacity aligns with the bank's growth objectives. Chad Kimball drives the implementation of scalable systems that support the institution's diverse product offerings. This leadership role involves identifying bottlenecks in service delivery and applying data-driven solutions to improve client experiences. Through the oversight of internal infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the operational readiness required to serve the Midwest market effectively. Kimball consistently evaluates performance metrics to refine internal procedures, ensuring that the bank operates with maximum productivity while upholding the highest standards of service quality and operational excellence.
    Chad Kimball

    Terri Cable - President, Michigan

    Terri Cable, the President, Michigan at First Merchants Bank, directs all banking operations and market expansion efforts within the Michigan territory. Cable architects localized financial strategies that address the specific economic needs of the Michigan client base. By overseeing regional branch performance, the President, Michigan ensures that the bank's financial services remain accessible and competitive in this key market. Terri Cable drives the growth of the regional loan and deposit portfolios through targeted business development initiatives. This leadership role involves building strong community partnerships and representing the bank in local economic forums. Through the management of regional teams, the President, Michigan maintains high standards of service delivery and operational compliance. Cable consistently analyzes regional market trends to adapt service offerings, ensuring that the bank remains a trusted financial partner for individuals and businesses throughout the Michigan region.

    James York - Market President

    James York, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, oversees the strategic growth and client relationship management within a designated geographic market. York architects business development plans that expand the bank's presence and increase market share in the assigned territory. By managing local branch operations, the Market President ensures that financial solutions are delivered with a focus on community engagement and client satisfaction. James York drives the acquisition of new commercial and retail accounts by leveraging the bank's comprehensive suite of financial products. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional teams to ensure consistent service quality and operational efficiency. Through active participation in local business networks, the Market President strengthens the bank's reputation as a primary financial resource. York consistently evaluates local economic conditions to tailor service strategies, ensuring that the bank effectively meets the unique financial requirements of the local community.

    Bob Bell - Eastern Region President

    Bob Bell, the Eastern Region President at First Merchants Bank, directs the operational and strategic activities across the eastern geographic footprint. Bell architects regional initiatives that enhance the delivery of financial services to a broad client base. By overseeing the performance of multiple branches, the Eastern Region President ensures that the bank maintains a strong competitive position in the eastern market. Bob Bell drives the growth of regional revenue streams by focusing on both commercial and consumer banking opportunities. This leadership role involves managing regional talent and ensuring that all staff adhere to the bank's high standards of service and compliance. Through the implementation of regional marketing and outreach programs, the Eastern Region President builds lasting relationships with local businesses and individuals. Bell consistently monitors regional economic performance to adjust strategic priorities, ensuring that the bank remains a dominant and reliable financial force in the eastern territory.

    Kirk Klabunde - President, Market (Indianapolis)

    Kirk Klabunde, the President, Market (Indianapolis) at First Merchants Bank, manages the strategic direction and operational success of the bank within the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Klabunde architects growth strategies that capitalize on the unique economic opportunities present in this major urban market. By overseeing local banking teams, the President, Market (Indianapolis) ensures that clients receive tailored financial solutions that support their specific goals. Kirk Klabunde drives the expansion of the bank's commercial and retail footprint through proactive business development and community involvement. This leadership role involves navigating the competitive landscape of the Indianapolis market to secure new partnerships and client relationships. Through the management of local resources, the President, Market (Indianapolis) maintains high levels of service quality and operational excellence. Klabunde consistently evaluates local market dynamics to refine service delivery, ensuring that the bank remains a preferred financial institution for the Indianapolis community.
    Kirk Klabunde

    Jeff Parsons - Market President

    Jeff Parsons, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, directs the operational oversight and business development efforts within a specific regional market. Parsons architects strategies that focus on deepening client relationships and expanding the bank's reach in the local area. By managing the performance of local banking teams, the Market President ensures that the institution provides high-quality financial solutions to both individuals and businesses. Jeff Parsons drives the growth of the local loan and deposit base through targeted outreach and relationship management. This leadership role involves representing the bank in local community initiatives and fostering a culture of service excellence. Through the coordination of regional activities, the Market President maintains the bank's commitment to providing accessible and reliable financial services. Parsons consistently analyzes local market data to identify new growth opportunities, ensuring that the bank remains a vital and responsive financial partner within the assigned market.

    Stephan Fluhler - Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer

    Stephan Fluhler, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer at First Merchants Bank, directs the technological infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives of the organization. Fluhler architects secure, scalable banking platforms that facilitate seamless digital transactions for clients. By overseeing the IT department, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer ensures that all systems remain resilient against cyber threats while supporting the bank's financial service delivery. Stephan Fluhler drives the integration of modern financial technology to enhance user accessibility and operational speed. This leadership role involves managing complex data environments and ensuring that technological investments align with the broader corporate strategy. Through the implementation of advanced software solutions, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer enables the bank to maintain a competitive edge in the digital banking landscape. Fluhler consistently evaluates emerging technologies to ensure the institution remains at the forefront of secure and efficient financial service delivery.
    Stephan Fluhler

    Steven Harris - Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

    Steven Harris, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at First Merchants Bank, manages the talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture strategies. Harris architects programs that attract and retain top-tier financial professionals capable of delivering superior client service. By overseeing human capital initiatives, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the bank's mission and values. Steven Harris drives the implementation of performance management systems that reward excellence and foster professional growth. This leadership role involves cultivating an inclusive environment that supports the diverse needs of the bank's employees across the Midwest. Through the development of comprehensive training and benefits packages, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the organization's internal capabilities. Harris consistently monitors employee engagement metrics to refine workplace policies, ensuring that the bank maintains a high-performing team dedicated to providing exceptional financial solutions.

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

    Who leads First Merchants Bank?
    First Merchants Bank is led by Mark Hardwick (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Prisby (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer) and Chad Kimball (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of First Merchants Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of First Merchants Bank includes leaders such as Mark Hardwick (Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Prisby (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Chad Kimball (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does First Merchants Bank have?
    First Merchants Bank has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in First Merchants Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of First Merchants Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Michigan, Market President.