Business First Bank’s New Orleans market opened a loan production office in Metairie, a suburb of New Orleans.

“As Louisiana’s leading business-focused community bank,” said Christopher Keene, president of Business First’s New Orleans market. “It is time for us to contribute actively to the renaissance under way in New Orleans. The energy in the city is visible and real.”

Keene, former senior vice president and West Bank Regional Manager of First Bank brings nearly 20 years of banking and financial experience to Business First Bank.

In addition to Keene, Christopher Palermo will join the New Orleans office as senior vice president, commercial banker; Bryan Pastoras vice president, commercial banker; and Tasha Palermo as commercial loan assistant.

Both bankers bring over 15 years of experience in New Orleans-area banking, lending and customer relations.