Our History

As one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, our business with you is personal. We focus on building long term relationships with Clients who are making decisions that work for the current fiscal year and the next generation. Our mission is simple - experienced bankers providing customized solutions while serving our community.

Our Story

First Bank Chicago is one of the top five privately held banks in Chicago. Due to decades of strong growth, we are recognized as a full-service bank providing five-star service throughout Chicagoland. We have been owned by the same family for over 40 years and that will continue well into the future.

As we continue to grow, we have found that bankers choose to join our team because of our culture which consists of prioritizing outstanding service over the bureaucracy and red tape found at a big bank.

While many on our team have grown with us over the years, many others have come to us with decades of experience from national and regional banks. Regardless, they all have the experience, knowledge, and sophistication to handle complex and unique situations across a wide range of industries and personal needs.

Our Non-Profit Banking team has created a full suite of products and services tailored to meet the special needs of any non-profit organization. With a bank-wide culture of caring and giving, we share in the vision of our non-profit clients to shape, define, and strengthen the community. Most of our officers serve on a non-profit board of their choosing, which matches their interests and passions. Our bankers have first-hand knowledge of what it takes for a non-profit to succeed.

Our Personal Banking and Private Banking teams take the time to understand your personal goals as well as your unique family dynamic to craft a plan to meet your financial objectives.

At First Bank Chicago, our bankers are empowered to create customized solutions with a quick local decision-making process. No business is too large or too small. Every client is important and gets our full attention along with a full suite of exceptional products and services.

We look forward to demonstrating how our experience and outstanding five-star service is the difference at First Bank Chicago. As a steady and reliable financial partner, your interest is our priority.

Thank you,

Eric Ephraim
Chief Executive Officer & President

Impact Statement

We have developed a bank-wide culture of caring by giving our time, talent and resources as well as financial education and charitable contributions. Improving our communities has been our priority since day one. Click here to read our Impact Statement.

Best Places to Work in 2024

For the seventh consecutive year, Crain’s Chicago Business has recognized First Bank Chicago as one of Chicago's 100 Best Places to Work. The award program, which surveys hundreds of employees across Chicagoland, identifies and recognizes the Chicago area’s best employers and provides organizations with valuable employee feedback.

Best Banks to Work For 2023

First Bank has been ranked #2 in American Banker’s 2023 Best Banks to Work For program. It is a national program designed to identify and honor banks with the best cultures for helping employees thrive.

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Three Illinois Banks Recognized for Exceptional Community Service

As one of the five largest privately-owned banks in Chicago, First Bank understands the importance of giving back and serving the community.

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