On March 24, 2025, Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) announced a significant step in its strategic expansion efforts by completing Phase 2 of its commercial growth initiative. The bank has welcomed three seasoned bankers—Matt Flynn, Alexander Burke, and Mitchell Hind—to its commercial banking team in Kansas City, Missouri. This move is part of Associated's ongoing commitment to bolstering its core business in the Midwest while venturing into new markets through organic growth.

2. New Talent for a Growing Market

The addition of these experienced professionals is aimed at strengthening Associated's presence in the Kansas City area, which is considered a pivotal market for the bank's expansion plans. Phillip Trier, executive vice president and head of Corporate and Commercial Banking, expressed enthusiasm about the new hires, stating, "We are excited to welcome Matt, Alexander, and Mitchell to our team. Their expertise and commitment to client success will be invaluable as we strengthen our presence and build lasting relationships in this region."

Profiles of the New Team Members

Matt Flynn: Joining Associated on March 21, Flynn takes on the role of business segment and region leader. Based in Kansas City, he will oversee the bank’s expansion into Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, while also leading the new Short Line Rail Industry Vertical. Flynn brings 17 years of experience from U.S. Bank, where he served as a senior vice president and team leader in commercial banking. He holds a bachelor's degree in accounting and criminology from the University of Northern Iowa and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington.

Alexander Burke: Also starting on March 21, Burke will serve as the team leader and Kansas City market leader. He has over 12 years of experience at U.S. Bank, where he was instrumental in growing their corporate and commercial client base. Burke holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and management, with a minor in leadership from Washburn University, and an MBA in finance from The University of Kansas.

Mitchell Hind: Hind joins as a senior vice president and relationship manager. With over 20 years in financial services, he has spent the last seven years at U.S. Bank, focusing on commercial banking. He earned a bachelor's degree in finance from Missouri Western State University.

3. Focus on Organic Growth

Associated Bank is demonstrating a continued commitment to its corporate and commercial business, evidenced by its significant investments in talent acquisition and capabilities. The latest phase of their strategic plan has resulted in a more than 25% increase in relationship managers, enhancing the bank's ability to provide innovative financial solutions across the Midwest region and beyond.

Trier emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, "Expanding our commercial presence with experienced and talented leaders and bankers is a critical component of this year's focus. We've strengthened our commercial leadership, enhanced our capabilities with new products and industry verticals, and refined our relationship-driven approach."

4. About Associated Banc-Corp

Associated Banc-Corp is the largest bank holding company based in Wisconsin, with total assets of $43 billion. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the bank operates nearly 200 locations and serves over 100 communities throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, along with various loan production offices spread across states including Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Texas.

This strategic initiative aligns with Associated’s broader goal of enhancing its market position and delivering superior financial services to clients in emerging markets. As the bank continues to build its team, industry observers will be keen to see how these changes impact its growth trajectory in the years to come.

Original press release