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The Role of a Business Development Officer in Building Successful Business

Running A Business 5 min read
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Our business experts are ready to help your business succeed.

First Bank offers a wide range of financial solutions for businesses of all sizes. Think of our business development team as an extension of your management circle. We’re here to consult with you and your stakeholders. We’re here to celebrate your big and little wins. We’re here to help you overcome complex financial hurdles. We’re here to talk business.

Choose First Bank to be your financial partner and we’ll be with you every step of the way. We offer much more than just business checking, savings, loans, and credit cards. Our business development team has also vetted an entire suite of business solutions like payroll, credit card processing, invoicing, remote deposit capture, and more — to help manage your business.

Why meet with a First Bank Business Development Officer?

Let’s talk business. How are you progressing toward your long-term vision? Insight into your business goals will help us recommend the best solutions. Our aim is to build a custom suite for you to holistically manage your business finances.

Local business experts across the Carolinas

We’ve been partnering with businesses across the Carolinas since 1935. The First Bank services that we offer have become more robust over the last 85 years, but our community-focused mindset has remained the same. We’re neighbors that you can count on.

Get Connected With A Business Development Officer ↓

Meet a few of our Business Development Officers

Headshot of Steve HardestySteve Hardesty

Senior Business Development Officer, SVP | Cary, NC – Cary Branch Info

Committed to Making a Positive Impact

“Wake County has always been my home and I make sure my community is supported through the growth opportunities I can give local business owners. It makes me feel good to see how I can help a business owner grow professionally and bring them personal fulfillment. The right financing can make a positive impact for business owners.”

 

Headshot of Jeremiah Hunt.Jeremiah Hunt

City Executive, SVP | Charlotte, NC – Charlotte Branch Info

Invested in the Community

“I understand the importance of building valuable long-term relationships with clients by being an added resource. Strength in the community comes from the strength of local businesses. Growing a business is done through building trust. The over 20 years of experience I have working in Charlotte help me be a better financial partner and serve my community.”

 

Headshot of Casey RiceCasey Rice

Business Development Officer | Wilmington, NC  –  Landfall Branch Info

Diverse Expertise

“Working in Wilmington for the past 10 years has allowed me to foster long-standing relationships with a diverse number of businesses. My expertise has given me the opportunity to help regional companies, commercial real estate brokers, large property management companies, local builders, developers, and small business owners be successful.”

 

Headshot of Paul Seward

Paul Seward

Area Executive | Florence, SC  –  Florence Main Branch Info

Deep Community Roots

“Florence has always been my home, so I have a strong interest in ensuring the community is supported. After being in commercial banking for more than 20 years, I understand what the market and my customers need. I stay highly involved throughout my community to be as accessible as I can for those that need my support.”

 

Headshot of Cathy Stone

Cathy Stone

Business Development Officer, VP | Winston-Salem, NC  –  Peace Haven Branch Info

Dedicated

“With over 18 years of experience in commercial banking, I have been able to serve the Winston-Salem area through the cultivation of personal relationships with many business owners in order to set them up for success. Helping a business grow by being able to identify what they truly need is my passion.”

 

Headshot of Chris Youngblood

Chris Youngblood

Business Development Officer, SVP | Asheville, NC  –  Downtown Asheville Branch Info

Creative Problem-Solver

“I’ve learned that it takes out-of-the-box thinking to fulfill the needs of my customers. First Bank is a community bank that can come up with creative solutions to help business owners accomplish their goals. I take the time to develop a connection with business owners to understand their end goals and help them grow.”

 

The First Bank Difference

Commitment to providing exceptional customer service is a pillar of our organization. Going the extra mile for our clients is what sets First Bank apart.

Custom Financing Solutions

Larger financial institutions can sometimes have rigid standards when it comes to business financing. As an independent community bank, we can build creative solutions tailored to each client. Our business development officers understand that it takes extra work to sift through complicated business structures and financials to find the right approach. Our extra effort leads to additional funding options and more economic opportunities within our communities.

Meaningful Relationships

At First Bank, you’ll enjoy one-on-one attention and comprehensive support from our entire team of business experts. Consider First Bank as an extension of your team. Our Business Development Officers want to get to know you and your business goals so that we can offer meaningful recommendations.

Long-Term Partnerships

We’re in it for the long haul. From aggressive growth plans to exit strategies, you can trust that First Bank is equipped to offer custom solutions that fit your needs both now and in the future.

Already a First Bank business client?

Give us a call! We want to hear from you. Let us know how things are going.

New to First Bank?

Fill out the form below and we’ll connect you with one of our Business Development Officers. You can also click here to find your nearest First Bank and reach out to us directly.

 

 

 

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At First Bank, you’ll enjoy one-on-one attention and comprehensive support from our entire team of business experts. You aren’t just another number in a database — you’re a partner. You’ll also learn firsthand how powerful an independent bank can be — capable of delivering everything big banks can, without being a big bank.
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