Climate First Bank announced the expansion of its C-suite with the promotion of two leaders, Chris Van Buskirk and Blaine Worak. These strategic appointments are set to drive efficiency and strengthen the organization's credit management, ensuring continued growth and excellence in operations.
Worak, previously serving as Senior Vice President, Director of Operations, has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer. With more than two decades of expertise in finance and banking, Worak brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. In this role, Worak will spearhead initiatives to enhance efficiency across all departments within the bank, working closely with leadership to identify and address operational gaps and leveraging technology to optimize processes. Before joining Climate First Bank, Worak held various roles at South State Bank through its acquisition of CenterState Bank, playing a key role in numerous mergers and acquisitions. Worak also holds an MBA from the University of Central Florida, further enhancing her qualifications for this pivotal role.
"I am honored to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Climate First Bank. I look forward to working closely with our talented team to drive operational excellence and leverage technology to support our exciting growth," said Worak.
Van Buskirk, formerly Senior Vice President, Sr. Corporate Advisor in the Commercial Lending department, has accepted the role of Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer. With 25 years of experience in the industry and a degree from the University of Central Florida, Van Buskirk brings a wealth of experience and trust to this critical position. Van Buskirk will oversee the bank's credit management, ensuring secure lending practices. Van Buskirk's leadership will provide the stability and expertise needed to manage the organization's credit appetite effectively.
"I am excited to step into the role of Chief Credit Officer and ensure that our lending practices balance safety and soundness while continuing to meet the credit needs of our clients. I am committed to maintaining the trust and stability that our clients expect from Climate First Bank," said Van Buskirk.