Lakewood-based FirstBank has announced Jennifer Payne as its new chief risk officer (CRO). Having worked at the bank for 23 years, Payne has served in diverse leadership roles including president of compliance and president of loan servicing, which she occupied before her CRO appointment. She was recognized in the Banking Exchange’s Top 20 Under 40 for her significant contribution to the growth of FirstBank.
In her role as CRO, Payne will supervise FirstBank’s compliance, security, loan review, risk management, legal and anti-money laundering departments. “Jennifer’s ascent to CRO is a testament to her dedication and experience. We’re confident that under Jennifer’s guidance, FirstBank will continue to thrive and carry on its mission,” said Kevin Classen, CEO of FirstBank.
FirstBank concurrently reported numerous executive promotions across its credit, retail, security and IT sectors. Ryan Blake, with the bank for 14 years, has been promoted to president of loan servicing. Aubrey Ebbs, an 18-year veteran of the institution, has been named Cherry Creek market president. Adam Ingersoll, with 12 years at FirstBank, was elevated to executive vice president in the North Metropolitan area.
In the security and IT departments, Brenden Smith, Kate Liosis, Brian Dennehy and Ryan Buerger were all promoted from senior directors to managing directors. Smith also serves as the chief information security officer, while Liosis, with over 16 years of management experience, will continue to lead FirstBank’s technology teams. Dennehy, a 26-year bank veteran, and Buerger, with over 23 years of IT experience, complete the cohort of newly minted managing directors.
Operating over 100 branches in Colorado, Arizona and California, FirstBank offers a spectrum of consumer and commercial banking services, including home equity loans, business financing and more.
Source: Press Release