James Simons, currently Associated Bank’s executive vice president and deputy chief credit officer, has been promoted to executive vice president and chief credit officer effective February 7, 2017, succeeding Scott S. Hickey. Simons’ appointment was part of a planned transition relating to Hickey’s previously announced retirement.

Simons has more than 38 years of industry experience. He joined Associated in 2016 from CIT where he served as chief credit officer for the Energy, Power, Technology, Real Estate, Private Banking, Middle Market and SBA business lines. He has also held executive credit roles with Guaranty Bancorp and US Bancorp.

“Jim’s solid knowledge and experience in leading credit functions will help us continue to enhance management of the company’s portfolio and effectively meet the overall goals of the company,” said Philip B. Flynn, president and CEO,

Headquartered in Green Bay, WI, Associated offers a full range of financial products and services from over 200 banking locations serving more than 100 communities in the Midwest.