On February 8th, 2022, the Board of First Independent Bank elected Thomas Koerber as President. Tom has currently been serving as Executive Vice-President and Chief Credit Officer. He has been in banking since 1987, with First Independent since 2017, and served as Chief Credit Officer of First Independent Bank’s sister Bank, Northview Bank, from 2005-2017.
Tom will take over the President’s duties from Bruce Pogatchnik, who will remain CEO and Board Chairman. In nominating Tom as President, CEO Pogatchnik stated, “Tom has 35 years in banking, including managing several banks, a keen mind, and tremendous work ethic. He is the right person to continue First Independent’s growth and success.” The ownership of the Bank remains in the Pogatchnik family along with its Employee ESOP ownership. The Pogatchnik family through Finlayson Bancshares has owned First Independent Bank since 1982.
The Board of First Independent Bank also announced several promotions on February 8th, 2022.
Stanley Holmberg was named Chief Credit Officer. Stan has been with First Independent Bank since 2006, serving as SVP Business Banker / Market Manager of First Independent Bank’s Marshall, MN office. Stan has been in community banking for over 35 years, with 30 of those being in the Marshall area. The Marshall office has seen rapid growth under Stan’s leadership which will now extend to oversight of all credit operations.
Amberlee Thooft was named Chief Operating Officer / Cashier. Amberlee started with First Independent Bank in 2003 as an intern and has risen thru the ranks over the years. Amberlee will take over the Chief Operating Officer duties from Kathy Neels, who will remain as Executive Vice President/ Director.
Audie Sanderson was named Chief Compliance Officer. Audie has been with First Independent Bank since 1985. Audie’s history and experience provide exceptional knowledge to oversee compliance procedures.
Mary Petersen was named Vice President / Human Resources. Mary has been an integral part of First Independent Bank for the past 30 years and will keep things running smoothly as First Independent Bank moves into the future.
With assets of 445 million and 10 locations, First Independent Bank is in a strong position to meet the needs of its customers and communities.
