Individual Awards

Dedicated to meeting the unique needs of our clients

Awards and Recognition
Excellence at every level

Corporate Office

Hope Bryant

Vice Chairwoman

American Banker's Most Powerful Women to Watch 2024

Hope Bryant was included on American Banker's list of Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2024. As a result of her key role in First Citizens' acquisition of Silicon Valley Bank, Bryant was named to the top of the list among all the honorees who helped lead their institutions to success during a rigorous year.

Learn more about Hope's recognition from American Banker.

Frank Holding Jr.

Chief Executive Officer

Barron's Top CEOs of 2023

Frank Holding Jr. was featured on Barron’s list for Top CEOs of 2023. The acquisition of Silicon Valley Bank in 2023 hallmarked Holding's consistent focus on expansion and financial stability for First Citizens and demonstrated the strategic and operational excellence of his leadership.

Learn more about why Barron's named Frank Holding a top CEO.

Ravi Kumar

Head of CIT Bank

Los Angeles Business Journal's Leaders of Influence 2024

Ravi Kumar was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as a Leader of Influence in Banking & Finance 2024 for his exceptional contributions to the finance sector.

Learn more about Ravi's recognition.

Commercial

Michael Hudgens

President of CIT Commercial Services

ABF Journal Leaders & Legends 2025

Michael Hudgens was recognized as one of ABF Journal's Leaders & Legends for 2025. Hudgens is a veteran in the industry and works proactively alongside his leadership team developing innovative financial solutions to tackle complex business needs while heading one of the nation's leading providers of factoring, credit protection, accounts receivable management, supply chain finance and lending services to middle market companies.

Mary Farley

CIT International Regional Manager

SFNet's Women in Secured Finance 2025

Mary Farley was recognized by The Secured Finance for their 2025 roundup of leading women in the secured finance industry.

Learn more about Mary's professional journey and her tips for the next generation.

Chris Esposito

Managing Director of Asset-Based Lending

ABF Journal's Icons Award – Legend 2024

Chris Esposito was recognized by ABF Journal with the Icons Legend Award. In his career spanning more than 3 decades, Chris has made remarkable contributions to both the industry and individuals within it.

Learn more about why Chris was chosen and his influence on the industry.

Darrin Beer

Manager with CIT Commercial Services

Los Angeles Business Journal's Leaders of Influence 2024

Darrin Beer was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as a Leader of Influence in Banking & Finance 2024 for his exceptional contributions to the finance sector.

Learn more about Darrin's recognition.

Matthew Rheem

Senior Underwriter, CIT Commercial Services

SFNet's 40 Under 40 Awards 2024

Matthew Rheem was recognized with SFNet's 40 Under 40 Award for his contributions to the secured finance industry as an emerging leader demonstrating exceptional expertise, leadership and commitment to innovation in the sector.

Learn more about Matthew's ranking.

Finance

Jacob Kart

Senior Change Management & Operational Modernization, VP

Monitor Daily's Next Gen 40 Under 40 Award 2025

Jacob Kart was named one of Monitor Daily's 40 under 40 for 2025 in the equipment finance industry. This award recognizes those who are driving innovation, demonstrating leadership and shaping the future of the field. Jacob's recognition is a testament to his dedication to his profession and his growing influence in the industry.

Michael Coiley

Managing Director of Healthcare Finance

ABF Journal Leaders & Legends 2025

Michael Coiley was recognized as one of ABF Journal's Leaders & Legends for 2025. A seasoned professional in the healthcare space, Michael has helped clients navigate complex challenges through a long-term vision and customer-centric attitude.

Chris Niederpruem

Real Estate Finance Executive

Commercial Observer's 2025 Power Finance 50

Chris Niederpruem was named to Commercial Observer's Power Finance 50 ranking for his impactful leadership during the last year. Under his direction, First Citizens has successfully navigated the real estate market and secured significant financing deals—from office to multifamily and construction.

Learn more about Chris' ranking.

Mike Jones

President of Equipment Finance

Monitor Daily's Icons Award – Veterans 2024

Mike Jones was awarded Monitor Daily's Icon Veteran Award for 2024. Over his extensive career, Mike has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, mentorship and servant leadership.

Learn more about Mike's achievement and his legacy.

Jessica Bragdon

Principal Human Resources Business Partner, Equipment Finance

Monitor Daily's Top Women in Equipment Finance 2024

Jessica Bragdon was recognized as one of the Top Women in Equipment Finance by Monitor Daily.

Learn more about why Monitor Daily recognized Jessica.

Nicole White

Director of Business Analysis, Equipment Finance

Monitor Daily's Next Gen 40 Under 40 2024

Nicole White was named one of Monitor Daily's 40 Under 40 for 2024. Her impactful contributions leading key initiatives, including a multimillion-dollar systems conversion affecting more than 700 employees across 15 functional groups, are testaments to her ability to navigate challenges in stride and be an active player in the industry.

Learn more about Nicole's ranking and her successful career.

Wealth

Art Saldivar

Director for First Citizens Wealth

Los Angeles Business Journal's Leaders of Influence 2024

Art Saldivar was recognized by the Los Angeles Business Journal as a Leader of Influence in Banking & Finance 2024 for his exceptional contributions to the finance sector.

Learn more about Art's recognition.

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