FirstBank expanded its business lending division and hired commercial banking veteran Nan Hinton as president.

The expansion will focus on commercial and industrial (C&I) loans, providing more companies the financial resources for operational or fixed asset needs such as funding payroll or purchasing equipment.

Hinton, who has 30 years of experience, previously served as the Commercial Banking Market president for Community Banks of Colorado where she was responsible for growing commercial relationships throughout the state.

“Expanding our business lending department will help FirstBank continue its strong financial performance and we’re confident in Nan’s expertise to propel our organization to the next level in commercial loans,” said John Ikard, CEO of FirstBank. “It’s also imperative that we provide significant resources to manufacturers, distributors and area businesses, which remain catalysts in our economic growth. Increasing our commercial lending efforts isn’t just good for business – it’s good for our customers and our communities.”

FirstBank operates more than 120 locations in Colorado, Arizona and California. FirstBank’s net loans totaled $9.1 billion as of June 30, 2016