First Merchants Bank Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Focused on delivering comprehensive financial solutions, First Merchants Bank maintains a commitment to community-centered banking while driving long-term economic growth 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
  • Market President - Gretchen Eyler
  • Regional President, Ohio - Jennifer Griffith
  • Regional President - Daryl Pomranke
  • President, Market (Indianapolis) - Kirk Klabunde
  • President, Michigan - Terri Cable
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer - Steven Harris
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer - Stephan Fluhler
  • Mark Hardwick - Chief Executive Officer

    Mark Hardwick, the Chief Executive Officer at First Merchants Bank, directs the overarching strategic vision and financial performance of the institution. Hardwick oversees the execution of long-term growth initiatives while ensuring the bank maintains robust capital levels and regulatory compliance. By aligning corporate objectives with the evolving needs of the financial services sector, the Chief Executive Officer fosters sustainable value for shareholders and clients alike. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the competitive positioning of the bank within the Midwest market. Mark Hardwick drives operational excellence by prioritizing digital transformation and customer-centric service models. Through disciplined risk management and a focus on organic expansion, the Chief Executive Officer secures the stability of the organization. Ultimately, Hardwick maintains the integrity of the financial solutions provided to the diverse client base served by the institution.
    Mark Hardwick

    Thomas Prisby - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Thomas Prisby, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at First Merchants Bank, governs the strategic direction and board-level oversight of the entire financial institution. Prisby architects the high-level governance framework that guides the bank through complex economic cycles and shifting regulatory landscapes. As the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Prisby ensures that the organizational culture remains anchored in the foundational principles established in 1893. This leadership position requires constant engagement with stakeholders to communicate the long-term vision for market expansion and service innovation. Thomas Prisby drives the integration of advanced financial technologies to enhance the delivery of banking solutions across the regional footprint. By maintaining rigorous standards of corporate accountability, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer protects the interests of investors and customers. Prisby secures the future of the bank by fostering a culture of excellence and prudent financial management.

    Chad Kimball - Chief Operating Officer

    Chad Kimball, the Chief Operating Officer at First Merchants Bank, manages the daily operational infrastructure and internal processes that support the delivery of financial services. Kimball optimizes the efficiency of banking workflows to ensure seamless customer experiences across all branches. As the Chief Operating Officer, Kimball oversees the implementation of scalable systems that facilitate growth and operational agility. This role involves coordinating with department heads to streamline administrative functions and reduce overhead costs. Chad Kimball drives the adoption of modern operational tools that improve productivity and service quality. By monitoring key performance indicators, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and resource allocation. Kimball ensures that the internal operations remain aligned with the broader strategic goals of the bank. Through meticulous oversight of daily activities, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the operational resilience required to support the diverse financial needs of the client base.
    Chad Kimball

    Gretchen Eyler - Market President

    Gretchen Eyler, the Market President at First Merchants Bank, directs the local business development and client relationship management strategies within the assigned territory. Eyler architects the growth plan for the market by identifying new opportunities for lending and deposit acquisition. As the Market President, Eyler oversees the performance of local branches and ensures that the financial solutions provided meet the specific needs of the community. This leadership role involves building strong partnerships with local businesses and community leaders to enhance the brand presence of the bank. Gretchen Eyler drives the execution of regional sales targets while maintaining high standards of customer service. By fostering a culture of local engagement, the Market President strengthens the competitive position of the institution. Eyler ensures that the market operations remain profitable and aligned with the overall corporate strategy of the bank.

    Jennifer Griffith - Regional President, Ohio

    Jennifer Griffith, the Regional President, Ohio at First Merchants Bank, manages the strategic expansion and operational oversight of the banking network across the Ohio market. Griffith architects the regional business plan to increase market share and enhance the delivery of financial services to local clients. As the Regional President, Ohio, Griffith oversees the coordination of branch activities and ensures consistent service quality throughout the region. This leadership role involves engaging with regional stakeholders to promote the financial solutions offered by the bank. Jennifer Griffith drives the implementation of growth initiatives that capitalize on the unique economic conditions of the Ohio market. By monitoring regional performance metrics, the Regional President, Ohio identifies areas for improvement and resource optimization. Griffith ensures that the regional operations contribute effectively to the overall financial success and strategic objectives of the institution.

    Daryl Pomranke - Regional President

    Daryl Pomranke, the Regional President at First Merchants Bank, directs the operational management and business development efforts across the assigned regional territory. Pomranke architects the regional strategy to drive revenue growth and expand the customer base through targeted financial solutions. As the Regional President, Pomranke oversees the performance of branch teams and ensures alignment with corporate service standards. This leadership role involves building relationships with key clients and community partners to solidify the market presence of the bank. Daryl Pomranke drives the execution of regional initiatives that support the broader mission of the institution. By analyzing local market trends, the Regional President identifies opportunities for service expansion and operational efficiency. Pomranke ensures that the regional team remains focused on delivering high-quality financial services that meet the diverse needs of the local community.

    Kirk Klabunde - President, Market (Indianapolis)

    Kirk Klabunde, the President, Market (Indianapolis) at First Merchants Bank, manages the strategic growth and client engagement initiatives within the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Klabunde architects the local business strategy to capture market share and provide comprehensive financial solutions to urban clients. As the President, Market (Indianapolis), Klabunde oversees the performance of local banking teams and ensures that service delivery meets the high expectations of the metropolitan market. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to enhance the visibility of the bank. Kirk Klabunde drives the execution of sales and service goals that align with the overall corporate strategy. By focusing on the unique financial needs of the Indianapolis market, the President, Market (Indianapolis) ensures the continued growth and profitability of the regional operations. Klabunde maintains the competitive edge of the bank through proactive market engagement.
    Kirk Klabunde

    Terri Cable - President, Michigan

    Terri Cable, the President, Michigan at First Merchants Bank, directs the strategic operations and business development activities throughout the Michigan market. Cable architects the regional growth plan to increase the footprint of the bank and provide tailored financial solutions to the local population. As the President, Michigan, Cable oversees the performance of the regional branch network and ensures that all operations adhere to corporate standards. This leadership role involves engaging with local business leaders and community stakeholders to promote the financial services of the institution. Terri Cable drives the implementation of regional initiatives that capitalize on the economic opportunities within Michigan. By monitoring regional performance and market dynamics, the President, Michigan identifies strategies to enhance service delivery and profitability. Cable ensures that the regional operations remain a vital component of the overall success and strategic vision of the bank.

    Steven Harris - Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

    Steven Harris, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at First Merchants Bank, directs the talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Harris architects the human capital strategy to attract and retain top-tier professionals capable of delivering high-quality financial solutions. As the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, Harris oversees the implementation of performance management systems that reward excellence and drive professional growth. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive work environment that supports the long-term mission of the bank. Steven Harris drives the development of training programs that equip staff with the skills necessary to navigate the modern banking landscape. By aligning workforce capabilities with corporate objectives, the Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the organization remains competitive. Harris secures the human foundation of the bank by promoting engagement and professional development across all regional operations.

    Stephan Fluhler - Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer

    Stephan Fluhler, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer at First Merchants Bank, manages the technological infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks that protect the financial assets of the institution. Fluhler architects the digital roadmap to ensure the bank remains at the forefront of financial technology innovation. As the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer, Fluhler oversees the deployment of secure banking platforms that facilitate efficient transactions for customers. This role involves coordinating with the executive team to integrate data analytics into the decision-making process. Stephan Fluhler drives the modernization of legacy systems to improve service delivery and operational security. By prioritizing the protection of sensitive financial data, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer mitigates risks associated with the digital banking environment. Fluhler ensures that the technological capabilities of the bank support the evolving needs of the market and the strategic goals of the organization.
    Stephan Fluhler

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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, Market President, Regional President, Ohio.