Mattoon, IL (February 12, 2024) First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid) is pleased to announce the appointment of two seasoned executives to its leadership team.
Stas Wolak will assume the role of Chief Retail Banking Officer, previously held by Mandy Lewis who now holds the position of Chief Operations Officer. Wolak brings a wealth of customer-focused banking industry experience to First Mid, having previously held key leadership roles at PNC Bank for the past 20 years. He most recently served as SVP, Market Sales and Service Manager. With a proven track record in leading cross-functional teams, driving growth, implementing strategic initiatives, and establishing consistent and exceptional customer experiences, Wolak is poised to play a pivotal role in First Mid’s continued success.
He is a proud Veteran, having served as Corporal for the United States Marine Corps. Wolak received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He is active in his community, serving as a board member for Laumeier Sculpture Park, past campaign chair for United Way, and past development chair for the school board.
“I am thrilled to join First Mid at such an exciting time in its journey. The organization’s commitment to innovation and client success aligns perfectly with my professional values, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth,” says Wolak.
In addition to Wolak’s appointment, Jeremy Frieburg has been named as the new Chief Information Officer (CIO). Frieburg will lead the development and execution of First Mid’s technology strategies. He assumes the role previously held by David Hiden, who is departing from the company after a successful five-year tenure to relocate closer to family. Hiden will continue to oversee projects and assist with the transition through mid-year 2024.
Frieburg brings over 20 years of experience as a financial technology and systems leader, most recently serving as SVP, Chief Information Officer at INB, N.A. With a history of success in leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, foster innovation, and ensure the security of digital systems, he will play a key role in aligning technology initiatives with First Mid’s broader business objectives, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience. Frieburg earned both his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science and his Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
“I am eager to join First Mid and contribute my expertise to its continued success. The financial industry is undergoing rapid transformation, and I am excited to collaborate with the talented team here to leverage technology as a catalyst for growth and innovation,” says Frieburg.
The dual appointments underscore First Mid’s commitment to assembling a leadership team comprised of industry leaders with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Joe Dively, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at First Mid, expressed confidence in the new hires and emphasized their importance in advancing the company’s strategic objectives.
“These appointments represent a significant milestone for First Mid. Both Stas and Jeremy bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and deliver exceptional value to our clients,” says Dively.
First Mid looks forward to leveraging the collective strengths of its enhanced leadership team to navigate the evolving landscape of the financial industry and drive sustainable growth.
About First Mid Bancshares, Inc.: First Mid Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company of First Mid Bank & Trust, N.A., First Mid Insurance Group, and First Mid Wealth Management Company. First Mid is an $7.6 billion community-focused organization that provides financial services including banking, insurance, wealth management, brokerage, and ag services through a network of locations in Illinois, Missouri, Texas, and Wisconsin, and a loan production office in Indiana. Together, our First Mid team takes great pride in providing solutions and services to our customers and communities and has done so since 1865. More information about the Company is available on our website at firstmid.com. Our stock is traded in The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the ticker symbol “FMBH”. Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
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