First Financial Leasing and Finance announced the appointment of Tim Fitzpatrick as its new CEO.

Fitzpatrick emerged as the ideal candidate for the CEO position from a pool of highly qualified individuals due to his extensive experience and expertise. Having previously served as the President of First Financial Leasing and Finance, Fitzpatrick played a pivotal role in delivering exceptional offerings to customers. With an impressive over 25-year background at JPMorgan Chase and Co., he honed his leadership skills and expertise in project and program management, business analysis and risk management.

Fitzpatrick succeeds Lucinda S. Watson as CEO; Watson, the company owner, will assume the role of Vice President.

"I am honored to assume the role of CEO at First Financial Leasing and Finance," said Fitzpatrick. "With my previous experience and the support of our dedicated team, I am confident in our ability to serve our clients and drive the company's success."

Watson said, "Tim Fitzpatrick is the perfect fit for this role, given his background at Chase and his expertise across various domains. His experience in marketing, software development, compliance, and banking operations made him an exceptional part of our company's growth strategy. It's time to let him take the reins as CEO."

Under Fitzpatrick's leadership, First Financial has already witnessed the benefits of improved systems, streamlined operations and enhanced marketing strategies. The company has full confidence in Fitzpatrick's ability to elevate First Financial to the next level. First Financial believes his tenure as CEO will further enhance the company's reputation in the finance industry, leading to increased recognition, attracting more qualified personnel, and fostering a top-tier workplace culture.

Fitzpatrick's professional journey includes significant roles at JPMorgan Chase and Co., such as Senior Marketing Manager, Digital Marketing Operations Manager, Marketing Operations Manager, Consumer Bank IT Conversation Lead, IT Director, Release Project Manager, Project Manager, and Programmer Analyst 2. He also worked as a Programmer at Nationwide Insurance.

Fitzpatrick holds a Bachelor of Applied Science from Heidelberg University and an MBA in Finance from Franklin University.