First Foundation Appoints Stuart Bernstein as Chief Banking Officer.

First Foundation has appointed Stuart Bernstein as Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer, effective August 11. Bernstein has over 25 years of experience in consumer banking, wealth management, and lending, most recently serving as Head of Branch and Private Client at Santander Bank. He will oversee consumer services, business banking, and private client strategy.

First Foundation Inc. (NYSE: FFWM) has appointed Stuart Bernstein as Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer of First Foundation Bank (FFB), effective August 11, 2025. Bernstein brings over 25 years of experience in consumer banking, wealth management, and lending, most recently serving as Head of Branch and Private Client at Santander Bank. In his new role, Bernstein will oversee FFB's consumer services, business banking, and private client strategy.

Bernstein's extensive leadership experience includes executive roles at MUFG Union Bank, where he managed high-performing teams and launched digital banking initiatives. Prior to Santander, he held executive positions at Wells Fargo and Bank of America, further solidifying his track record in financial services. Bernstein holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Southern California and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington.

The appointment of Bernstein comes as First Foundation aims to drive its next phase of banking evolution. Thomas C. Shafer, CEO of First Foundation Inc., cited Bernstein's experience and focus on talent development and client engagement as key qualifications for this role.

First Foundation offers a comprehensive platform of financial services, including personal banking, business banking, and private wealth management. This integrated approach, combined with a high level of personalized service, has contributed to its growth. However, recent financial results, including a net loss in the second quarter of 2025, have raised concerns among investors and analysts.

Stuart Bernstein's appointment signals First Foundation's commitment to navigating the challenges ahead. Bernstein's leadership is expected to accelerate the bank's momentum in consumer services, business banking, and private client strategy, potentially improving the company's financial health.

References:
[1] https://www.firstfoundationinc.com/news-insights/first-foundation-bank-appoints-stuart-bernstein-chief-banking-officer
[2] https://www.marketscreener.com/news/first-foundation-bank-appoints-stuart-bernstein-as-chief-banking-officer-ce7c5ed2df89f420
[3] https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/first-foundation-appoints-stuart-bernstein-as-chief-banking-officer-93CH-4182426