With more than 12 years in the banking industry, David Nelson is currently a Senior Commercial Banker for First Financial Bank ready to deliver quality service to the Chicagoland area. Nelson takes pride in First Financial’s ability to provide national lending capabilities with a hometown feel, and he is excited by the opportunity to bring these qualities newly to the Chicagoland region.
Prior to joining First, Nelson spent 11 years in a Construction, Engineering & Architecture (CE&A) Division. This experience provides a keen understanding of the business, cyclicality, seasonality, and other features of the industries, preparing him to effectively serve contractors. He is passionate about getting to know a business and creating tailored financial solutions specific to its needs. He also has a strong credit background, spending time in Purchased/Managed Assets Division and working on bank acquisitions including both FDIC loss share failed banks and non-FDIC loss share acquisitions.
One notable professional achievement includes when, at a previous institution, Nelson self-sourced a $350MM Mechanical Contractor, originating a $20MM RLOC and bringing over $50MM+ in deposits. Nelson took the time to build a relationship with the owner, which led to a meeting with the CFO and the opportunity to bid on the full business relationship, which ultimately led to the company transitioning the full banking relationship within a year. Nelson also sustains long-lasting relationships with clients, bringing many with him as he transitioned to his role at First Financial. This includes hitting the ground running and closing on a $7MM loan facility for a restoration company.
Additional achievements include:
- Assisting in due diligence and workout in both FDIC loss share and non-FDIC bank acquisitions and leading the audit which led to the buyout of a bank out of the FDIC loss share program.
- Led the team for PPP loan origination processes and provided training as to the underwriting of the PPP loans.
- Spearheading the process to get First Financial approved for the Advantage Illinois Program, a Federally funded program that will leverage $220 million in funding to support Illinois small businesses.
In addition to his work, Nelson has served as Treasurer and on the Executive Board of The Tuskegee NEXT Foundation, which builds on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by providing a path to aviation careers for under-represented youth. He has also been a lifelong volunteer for Wish Upon A Star in Joliet, which grants wishes to terminally ill children. He is also a member of the Rotary Club, a beekeeper, and huge George Clooney fan.