First Financial Bank to expand into Michigan

Cincinnati, Ohio-based First Financial Bank will expand into Michigan by opening a commercial banking office in Grand Rapids..The bank hired Chris Turner as commercial market president. Turner has 32 years of experience in financial services, including 29 in the Grand Rapids region. .The Michigan expansion follows the growth of $18.6 billion First Financial in recent years to Chicago, Cleveland and Evansville, Ind. ."Chris and his team bring excellent local market knowledge and connections that, added to the commercial banking capabilities we can offer to local businesses, position us well to build new relationships and grow our presence here," said First Financial Bank President and CEO Archie Brown. "First Financial's mission is to help our clients and communities thrive. We look forward to serving the needs of business throughout Grand Rapids."