Rick Sems has been appointed First Bank’s regional president for the Midwest. Sems is joining First Bank from Reliance Bank, where he served as president and CEO. He brings a background in strategic planning and a proven record of accomplishment in both a large bank and community banking environment.

In addition, Tim Fogerty has been appointed to the newly-created position of senior vice president – head of Specialty Lending. Fogerty is also joining First Bank from Reliance Bank, where he served as chief lending officer. He possesses exceptional business development, leadership and credit skills. Fogerty will oversee the Healthcare, Illinois and Agriculture businesses for the Midwest.

“With these moves, we will have one of the strongest, if not the strongest, commercial teams in the market,” said Tim Lathe, president, chief executive officer and chairman of First Bank. “As we continue to implement our strategic plan, our focus on growing revenue through adding and deepening client relationships has never been greater.”

First Bank has $6.09 billion in assets and 111 locations in Missouri, Illinois and California.