Introduction to First Midwest Bancorp Inc.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. is a premier financial holding company headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, with a storied history spanning over 80 years. As a trusted name in the banking and finance industry, the company has built a reputation for delivering personalized financial solutions to individuals, businesses, and institutions across the Midwest. With assets exceeding $20 billion, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. operates through a network of more than 100 banking offices in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The company’s comprehensive suite of products includes commercial and retail banking, wealth management, mortgage services, and treasury management. Recognized for its strong capital position, customer-centric approach, and community involvement, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. consistently ranks among the top regional banks in the United States by Forbes and other prominent financial publications. The organization serves a diverse client base ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large corporations, as well as high-net-worth individuals and public sector entities. Its commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable growth has positioned it as a leader in the competitive financial services landscape. Employees at First Midwest Bancorp Inc. benefit from a collaborative culture, robust professional development programs, and opportunities to make a tangible impact on local communities. The company’s core values of integrity, teamwork, and excellence drive every aspect of its operations, ensuring long-term value for shareholders, clients, and employees alike. Whether you are a seasoned banking professional or an emerging talent, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offers a dynamic environment where careers flourish.

Company History and Business Evolution

Founded in 1941 as a single community bank in Chicago’s western suburbs, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. has evolved into a major regional banking powerhouse. The founding vision was to provide accessible, relationship-based banking to local businesses and families—a mission that still guides the company today. Through strategic mergers and acquisitions, including the notable 2019 merger with Standard Bancshares, the company expanded its footprint across the Midwest. In 2021, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. announced its merger with Old National Bancorp, creating one of the largest regional banks in the Midwest with combined assets of over $45 billion. Prior to this, the company had grown organically and through acquisitions such as the purchase of Harris Bank’s operations in Illinois and the acquisition of TCF Financial Corporation’s commercial banking unit. Key milestones include the launch of its online banking platform in the early 2000s, the introduction of mobile banking apps, and the development of a robust fintech partnership ecosystem. The company’s evolution reflects a steadfast commitment to adapting to changing market dynamics while maintaining a community bank ethos. During the 2008 financial crisis, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. remained well-capitalized and continued to lend, earning recognition for its prudent risk management. In recent years, the company has invested heavily in artificial intelligence for fraud detection, blockchain for secure transactions, and cloud-based infrastructure for operational efficiency. This forward-looking approach has enabled First Midwest Bancorp Inc. to stay ahead of industry trends and deliver superior service. The company’s history is also marked by its dedication to corporate social responsibility, including initiatives focused on financial literacy, affordable housing, and small business development. Today, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. stands as a testament to the power of strategic vision, adaptability, and a people-first philosophy.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. at a Glance

• Headquarters: Itasca, Illinois, United States
• Founded: 1941
• CEO: Michael L. Scudder (prior to merger)
• Number of Employees: Approximately 3,500
• Assets Under Management: Over $20 billion (pre-merger)
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $1.2 billion (2021)
• Net Income: $350 million (2021)
• Stock Symbol: FMBI (formerly listed on NASDAQ)
• Industry: Financial Services – Regional Banking
• Products: Commercial Banking, Retail Banking, Wealth Management, Mortgage Lending, Treasury Management
• Market Focus: Midwest United States (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin)
• Digital Channels: Online Banking, Mobile App, Bill Pay, Remote Deposit Capture
• Branch Network: 100+ locations
• Customer Base: Individuals, SMEs, Large Corporations, Nonprofits, Government Entities
• Corporate Values: Integrity, Teamwork, Excellence, Community Commitment
• Awards: Forbes Best Employers, American Banker Top 100, Chicago Tribune Top Workplaces
• Key Competitors: Old National Bank, BMO Harris, Associated Bank, Huntington Bank
• Acquisitions: Standard Bancshares (2019), several smaller community banks post-2010
• Tech Investments: AI, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity
• Community Engagement: First Midwest Foundation, United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Local Chamber of Commerce partnerships

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Mission: First Midwest Bancorp Inc. strives to empower individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals by providing innovative solutions, exceptional service, and unwavering support.

Vision: To be the preferred regional bank recognized for driving economic growth, fostering financial inclusion, and delivering sustainable shareholder value through a culture of integrity and excellence.

Core Values:

• Integrity: We uphold the highest ethical standards in every interaction, ensuring transparency and trust with clients, colleagues, and communities.
• Teamwork: We collaborate across departments and boundaries to deliver cohesive, client-focused outcomes.
• Excellence: We strive for continuous improvement, investing in talent, technology, and processes to exceed expectations.
• Community Commitment: We actively contribute to the well-being of the regions we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism, and responsible lending practices.
• Innovation: We embrace change and leverage emerging technologies to enhance the financial experience while mitigating risks.

These values are embedded in every facet of the organization, from performance reviews to strategic planning. Employees are recognized and rewarded for exemplifying these principles through the company’s “Values in Action” program. By adhering to this value system, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. has cultivated a loyal client base and a workforce that takes pride in making a positive impact.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. has historically pursued a balanced strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions. The company’s 2025 vision (prior to merger) focused on three pillars: digital transformation, customer experience enhancement, and operational efficiency. Under this roadmap, the bank aimed to migrate 80% of transactions to digital channels, deploy AI-powered chatbots for real-time customer support, and integrate APIs for seamless third-party partnerships. In terms of market expansion, First Midwest aimed to deepen its presence in high-growth Midwest corridors and selectively enter new metropolitan areas through de novo branches or acquisitions. The company also committed to expanding its wealth management division by recruiting top advisors and offering personalized financial planning services. On the sustainability front, First Midwest had plans to issue green bonds, reduce its carbon footprint by 30% by 2030, and increase financing for renewable energy projects. The bank’s future roadmap also includes developing a merchant banking unit to serve middle-market companies requiring advisory and capital solutions. While the merger with Old National has since altered this independent trajectory, the strategic blueprints developed by First Midwest’s leadership team continue to influence broader industry best practices. For this job posting, we focus on the current operations and culture of First Midwest Bancorp Inc. as an independent entity, recognizing its legacy as a beacon of regional banking excellence.

Products, Technologies, and Services

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offers a comprehensive portfolio of financial products and services tailored to meet diverse client needs:

• Commercial Banking: Business checking and savings, commercial loans and lines of credit (including SBA 7(a) and 504 loans), equipment financing, commercial real estate lending, asset-based lending, and international services.
• Retail Banking: Personal checking and savings accounts, CDs, IRAs, debit/credit cards, online and mobile banking, person-to-person payments (Zelle), and overdraft protection programs.
• Wealth Management: Investment management, trust services, estate planning, retirement planning (401(k), IRAs), and private banking for high-net-worth individuals.
• Mortgage Services: Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA loans, jumbo mortgages, home equity lines of credit, and refinancing options.
• Treasury Management: Cash management, remote deposit capture, positive pay, ACH services, wire transfers, and merchant services.
• Digital Technologies: The First Midwest mobile app (4.6 stars on App Store), real-time alerts, card controls, biometric login, and a robust online portal for business clients.
• Innovation Lab: A dedicated team exploring blockchain for cross-border payments, AI for credit scoring, and open banking APIs.

The technology stack is built on a hybrid cloud infrastructure that ensures high availability and security. The bank also partners with fintech companies like Q2, Jack Henry, and FIS to deliver cutting-edge digital capabilities.

Industries and Markets Served

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. serves a broad spectrum of industries, with deep expertise in several key sectors:

• Manufacturing: Providing equipment financing, inventory loans, and working capital lines to industrial and durable goods manufacturers.
• Healthcare: Offering practice acquisition loans, medical equipment leasing, and revenue cycle management through treasury solutions.
• Real Estate: Specializing in construction loans, permanent financing, and property management for residential and commercial developers.
• Agriculture: Serving agribusinesses with crop financing, livestock loans, and farm operating lines.
• Professional Services: Tailored lending for law firms, accounting practices, and consulting companies.
• Nonprofits: Low-cost lines of credit, cash management, and investment services for charitable organizations.
• Government: Municipal banking services including tax anticipation notes, payroll processing, and bond proceeds management.

Geographically, the bank focuses on the Midwest region, which provides stability and close relationships. Markets such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Des Moines, Detroit, and Milwaukee are central to its operations.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at First Midwest Bancorp Inc. (prior to merger) comprised seasoned executives with decades of experience in banking, finance, and technology. CEO Michael L. Scudder emphasized a philosophy of “servant leadership” – empowering managers to support their teams and removing obstacles to productivity. The executive committee encouraged open communication, data-driven decision-making, and a fail-fast approach to innovation. The company’s management style is characterized by flat hierarchies, cross-functional collaboration, and regular town halls where employees can interact directly with executives. First Midwest invests in leadership development through its “Future Leaders Program” and offers mentorship opportunities to high-potential employees. The board of directors includes experts in risk management, digital strategy, and corporate governance, ensuring oversight and strategic guidance.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. actively participates in and sponsors industry events such as the American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For conference, the ICBA LIVE national convention, and regional business expos. The company also hosts an annual Client Appreciation Gala and quarterly economic outlook webinars featuring prominent economists. Community engagement is a cornerstone: the First Midwest Foundation donates millions annually to education, housing, and hunger relief programs. Employees volunteer thousands of hours at food banks, school financial literacy workshops, and Habitat for Humanity builds. The bank also organizes Small Business Saturdays and free credit-building seminars for underserved communities.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With around 3,500 employees, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. fosters a culture of inclusion, recognition, and professional growth. The workplace has received accolades from Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers and from the Chicago Tribune as a Top Workplace. Diversity and inclusion initiatives include employee resource groups (ERGs) for women, people of color, veterans, and LGBTQ+ colleagues. The company offers comprehensive benefits: health insurance, 401(k) matching (up to 6%), tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, and flexible work arrangements (hybrid/remote roles available). Performance is recognized through quarterly “Spotlight Awards” and an annual President’s Circle trip for top achievers. The culture emphasizes work-life balance; many teams adopt a four-day workweek during summer months. Professional development is supported through LinkedIn Learning subscriptions, internal job rotations, and sponsorship for certifications like CFA, CFP, and CRCM.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Job Title:

Commercial Banking Relationship Manager – Corporate Banking Division

Location:

Itasca, Illinois (Hybrid – 3 days onsite per week; Remote flexibility for experienced candidates)

Salary Range:

$85,000 – $130,000 per year plus performance bonus (target 20-30%) and comprehensive benefits.

Job Type:

Full-time, permanent

Responsibilities:

• Manage and grow a portfolio of commercial relationships with annual revenue of $5M+.
• Originate new business through prospecting, referrals, and community networking.
• Structure and negotiate credit facilities up to $10M (including C&I, CRE, and SBA loans).
• Conduct financial analysis, risk assessment, and prepare credit memoranda for loan committee.
• Cross-sell treasury management, wealth management, and mortgage solutions to existing clients.
• Maintain portfolio quality through proactive monitoring, covenant compliance, and annual reviews.
• Collaborate with product specialists, underwriters, and legal teams to deliver seamless client service.
• Represent the bank at industry events, business roundtables, and local chamber meetings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• 4-7 years of commercial banking or relationship management experience in a regional bank environment.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding loan growth and deposit goals.
• Strong credit acumen; completion of formal credit training program (e.g., ABA, RMA) highly desired.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with Salesforce, nCino, or similar CRM platforms.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Why Join First Midwest Bancorp Inc.?

• Be part of a legacy institution with a community-focused mission and strong financial stability.
• Access to industry-leading training programs and mentorship from senior executives.
• Competitive compensation package with bonuses, stock options (pre-merger RSUs), and generous PTO.
• Hybrid work model to support work-life balance.
• Opportunities for advancement into portfolio management, commercial team leadership, or specialized roles (e.g., Healthcare Banking, ABL).
• Meaningful community impact through company-sponsored volunteer days and charitable matching.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

GLASSDOOR

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. holds a 3.9 out of 5 rating on Glassdoor, with 85% of employees recommending the company to a friend. Reviews often praise the collaborative culture, flexible working arrangements, and the supportive management. One employee noted: “Great work environment with a strong focus on ethics. The leadership genuinely cares about employee well-being.” Critiques include occasional bureaucracy in decision-making and limited upward mobility in certain departments. However, the overall sentiment is positive, especially regarding compensation and benefits.

INDEED

On Indeed, the company earns a 3.7 average rating from over 200 reviews. Common strengths highlighted include job stability (even during economic downturns), comprehensive training, and a friendly atmosphere. Some reviewers point out that the pay could be more competitive for entry-level roles, but the total package (including bonus and 401k match) is considered fair. The bank’s commitment to diversity is also frequently noted.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

Gartner Peer Insights shows First Midwest Bancorp Inc. as a niche player in the North American banking market, with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5. Clients appreciate the responsiveness of relationship managers and the simplicity of digital tools. Feedback from commercial clients: “They understand our business and provide custom solutions quickly. Their treasury management portal is intuitive.” Some larger corporates desire more advanced API integrations.

TRUSTPILOT

On Trustpilot, First Midwest has a 4.0 rating from personal banking customers. Positive reviews highlight friendly branch staff and straightforward mortgage processes. Negative feedback often cites occasional delays in customer service phone lines. The bank actively responds to complaints, demonstrating a commitment to resolution.

G2

In the banking software category on G2, First Midwest’s mobile app is rated 4.3 out of 5, with users praising its ease of use for bill pay and mobile check deposit. Business clients note the remote deposit capture feature as a time-saver.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Across its branches, Google reviews average 4.1 stars. Customers often mention the knowledgeable staff and minimal wait times. A sample review: “I’ve been banking here for 10 years. The tellers are always polite, and the loan officer helped me refinance my home at a great rate.” Disparate reviews mention ATM fees for non-customers, but overall sentiment is favorable.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

On LinkedIn, the company has over 30,000 followers and is recognized as a top employer in financial services. The page showcases employee achievements, community service events, and thought leadership articles. Recruiters highlight the company’s employer branding as a “great place to build a long-term career.” The average employee tenure is 5.6 years, indicating strong retention.

Industry Reputation

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. is frequently recognized by American Banker as one of the “Top 10 Best Banks to Work For” (multiple years) and has received a “Superior” rating for financial strength from BauerFinancial. The bank is also a member of the Federal Reserve System and is FDIC insured. Its reputation in the Midwest is that of a safe, reliable, and community-oriented institution. The company has been sued occasionally in class‑action lawsuits regarding overtime pay, but these have been settled without major reputational damage. Overall, it is well-regarded by both customers and peers.

Why Organizations Choose First Midwest Bancorp Inc.

Organizations select First Midwest Bancorp Inc. as their financial partner for several compelling reasons:

• Local Decision-Making: Loan approvals are often made at the regional level, allowing faster turnaround times than mega-banks.
• Relationship Centricity: Dedicated relationship managers who understand clients’ industries and offer proactive advice.
• Competitive Pricing: Attractive interest rates on loans and deposits, coupled with fee transparency.
• Innovation Balance: Cutting-edge digital tools without losing the human touch.
• Stability and Trust: Rated among the safest banks in the United States with high capital ratios.
• Community Ties: Banks that reinvest profits locally through lending and philanthropy.
• Custom Solutions: Ability to structure complex financing for medium‑sized businesses.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to First Midwest Bancorp Inc. using the following contact details:

Address: 300 Park Boulevard, Suite 400, Itasca, IL 60143, United States
Contact Number: +1 (630) 875-7400
Support Number: +1 (800) 322-5698
Helpdesk Number: +1 (630) 875-7777
Website: www.firstmidwest.com

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn:First Midwest Bank on LinkedIn
• Facebook:First Midwest Bank Facebook
• Twitter/X:@FirstMidwest
• YouTube:First Midwest Bank YouTube
• Instagram:@firstmidwestbank

Frequently Asked Questions

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. focuses on providing comprehensive banking solutions to individuals, small businesses, and mid-market corporations across the Midwest. Its portfolio includes commercial lending, retail banking, wealth management, and treasury services.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. is headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, USA. The office location serves as the nerve center for its regional banking operations.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. was founded in 1941, originally as a community bank serving Chicago’s western suburbs.

Prior to its merger with Old National Bank, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. held over $20 billion in total assets, making it one of the larger regional banks in the United States.

The company’s CEO prior to the merger was Michael L. Scudder, a highly respected leader with extensive experience in commercial banking and strategic growth.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offers a variety of loan products including commercial real estate loans, SBA loans, equipment financing, lines of credit, personal mortgages, and home equity lines.

Yes, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offers robust online and mobile banking platforms with features such as remote deposit capture, bill pay, Zelle transfers, and real-time account alerts.

On Glassdoor, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. holds a 3.9 out of 5 star rating, with many employees highlighting its collaborative culture and attractive benefits.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. has been recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer, by American Banker as a Top Bank to Work For, and by the Chicago Tribune as a Top Workplace.

Job openings can be viewed and applied for by visiting the Careers section of First Midwest Bancorp Inc.’s official website or through major job boards like LinkedIn and Indeed.

Absolutely. The First Midwest Foundation donates millions annually to education, housing, and hunger relief. Employees also volunteer thousands of hours each year.

Yes, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. was publicly traded on NASDAQ under the ticker FMBI until it merged with Old National Bank in 2022.

For the role of Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, the annual salary range is typically between $85,000 and $130,000, plus performance bonuses.

Yes, many roles at First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offer a hybrid work model, and some positions are fully remote for experienced candidates.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, with employee resource groups for women, minorities, veterans, and LGBTQ+ employees.

First Midwest Bancorp Inc. is often praised for its strong community focus, personalized service, and financial stability, which distinguish it from larger national banks.

The bank uses a mix of proprietary and third-party solutions, including a mobile app built on the Q2 platform, AI for fraud detection, and cloud-based core systems.

Yes, the company promotes from within and offers leadership development programs, tuition reimbursement, and sponsorship for professional certifications.

Customers can reach support by calling +1 (800) 322-5698, visiting any branch, or using the secure messaging feature within the online banking portal.

Yes, First Midwest Bancorp Inc. offers a full suite of wealth management services, including investment management, trust services, estate planning, and private banking.

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