First Financial Bancorp Names New President and Adjusts Executive Compensation

First Financial Bancorp announced a series of leadership changes and compensation adjustments effective September 14, 2026, as part of its succession planning and organizational strategy.

James M. Anderson, age 55, has been appointed President of the Company and its subsidiary, First Financial Bank. Mr. Anderson will continue to serve as Chief Financial Officer. Archie M. Brown, who previously held the roles of President and CEO, will retain his position as Chief Executive Officer. Additionally, the Company appointed Amanda N. Neeley, age 46, as Chief Banking Officer, and Malcolm A. Myers, age 59, as Chief Operating Officer.

In connection with these appointments, the Compensation Committee approved salary increases for Named Executive Officers. James M. Anderson’s base salary increased by 4.9% to $640,000. Amanda N. Neeley’s base salary increased by 5.3% to $500,000. Karen B. Woods’ base salary also increased by 5.3% to $500,000 due to expanded responsibilities in Audit and Credit Administration.

The Committee also adjusted Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP) and Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) targets. For James M. Anderson, the STIP target increased from 80% to 90% of base salary, and the LTIP target increased from 95% to 100%. For Amanda N. Neeley, the STIP target increased from 65% to 70% of base salary, and the LTIP target increased from 75% to 80%.

Furthermore, the Company granted one-time time-based restricted stock awards to several executives. The grants, valued using the closing price of $32.74 on September 14, 2026, vest in full on the third anniversary of the grant date. The executives receiving these awards include Archie M. Brown, James M. Anderson, Amanda N. Neeley, Karen B. Woods, and Malcolm A. Myers. The total grant date values for these awards were $3,000,000 for Mr. Brown, $1,500,000 for Mr. Anderson, $1,000,000 for Mrs. Neeley, $500,000 for Ms. Woods, and $250,000 for Mr. Myers.

Additionally, the Compensation Committee authorized amendments to severance and change-in-control agreements. These updates were designed to align executive retention incentives with the practices of similarly-sized peer banks.