FirstBank named John Markovich chief credit officer. Markovich, who was formerly the bank’s president of commercial lending, will be taking over for Brian Ballard, who retired after more than 30 years with the company.
Ballard started his career with FirstBank in 1992 and held several leadership positions, including west market president, before being appointed CCO in 2020.
“Brian was a tremendous contributor and brought immense value to our organization,” Jim Reuter, CEO of FirstBank, said. “He led us through the pandemic and [Paycheck Protection Program], which helped over 15,000 businesses and enabled FirstBank to be the state’s largest originator of economic relief loans. Brian also oversaw the largest years in loan production in our organization’s history.”
Markovich started his FirstBank career in 2006 and previously oversaw the company’s mortgage and commercial real estate departments.
In tandem with Markovich’s promotion, Tony Giarratano, who previously served as executive vice president in the Southwest market, will take over as president of commercial lending. Giarratano started his FirstBank career in 2007.
Additionally, Patrick Riley, who was previously the executive vice president of the Northwest market for the bank, will now assume the role of west market president. Riley has been with FirstBank since 2006.
“Our employees are our most valuable asset, and we aim to create an environment where they can have fulfilling careers,” Reuter said. “We’ve been steadfast about promoting within and harnessing internal talent, and I think that’s why FirstBank has been a strong performing company over the decades. John, Tony and Patrick have the knowledge, foresight and expertise to carry out the bank’s strategic vision. We look forward to watching them thrive in their new and well-deserved positions.”
