Angela M.W. Kelley Appointed as New General Counsel at Associated Bank

Angela M.W. Kelley Takes the Helm as General Counsel at Associated Banc-Corp

In a significant leadership transition, Angela M.W. Kelley has been appointed as the new General Counsel for Associated Banc-Corp, effective October 13, 2026. She will replace Randall J. Erickson, who is set to retire after more than 14 years of service in this capacity. Kelley's impressive background in corporate law and business strategy positions her as a strong successor to Erickson.

At 45 years old, Kelley brings an extensive 20-year track record in corporate law, executive management, and business strategy to the table. Prior to this appointment, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of Diversity Lab/Talent Multipliers. Her previous roles also include being the Executive Vice President and Director of Wealth Management at Heartland Financial USA, Inc., which she held until its acquisition by UMB Financial Corporation in 2025. Kelley's vast experience further extends to her tenure as General Counsel at both PacWest Bancorp and NBT Bancorp Inc.

"Angela brings a wealth of both legal and business experience to the role," stated Andy Harmening, President and CEO of Associated. He expressed confidence in Kelley's ability to lead governance and transformation efforts aligned with the company's growth culture. The leadership change is seen as vital for steering the bank through its upcoming strategies and initiatives.

Randall J. Erickson, 67, is leaving the post after having played a pivotal role in shaping the legal and governance strategies at Associated. As the trusted advisor of the company, he has provided invaluable insights on corporate transactions and the regulatory landscape, equipping the organization to navigate the complexities of the finance industry. Erickson's decision to retire was a planned move, ensuring that Kelley will have a smooth transition as he remains available in an advisory role until the end of the year.

Appreciating the collaborative journey with his colleagues, Erickson remarked, "It has been a privilege to work with Andy, the executive leadership team, the board of directors, and the legal team for these many years. I am confident that Angela will lead them expertly."

Harmening took a moment to acknowledge Erickson's contributions by stating, "I want to thank Randy for his contributions to Associated and for his advice. We wish him a long and happy retirement."

Associated Banc-Corp is a major player in the banking industry, boasting assets of approximately $52 billion and serving as Wisconsin's largest bank holding company. The organization spans across six states including Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska, with additional loan production offices in several others including Texas and New York. This broad outreach provides them with a diverse client base benefitting from a wide range of financial products and services.

As Kelley steps into her new role, she will be headquartered in Milwaukee and will report directly to Harmening. With her robust background and commitment to diversity, Kelley is poised to not only maintain the esteemed legacy left by Erickson but to also forge a path for progressive change within Associated Banc-Corp.

This leadership change is not just a routine personnel announcement but a strategic maneuver reflecting the company's vision for future growth. Kelley's appointment signifies a deep commitment to leveraging diverse experiences in growing the organization further, ensuring they remain a formidable force in the banking sector.

For additional details about Associated Banc-Corp and its products, visit www.associatedbank.com.