#United States #Minneapolis #Twin Cities #Associated Bank #Mike Lebens

Associated Bank Expands Twin Cities Operations

In a significant move aimed at strengthening its presence in the Twin Cities, Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) has appointed Mike Lebens as the new president for the market, effective January 1, 2026. This announcement comes alongside the grand opening of a new branch located in the iconic IDS Center in Minneapolis.

New Leadership for a New Era

Mike Lebens, who joined Associated last year from Wells Fargo Bank where he held leadership roles for 22 years, will succeed Paul Schmidt, the current market president and head of Commercial Real Estate and Facilities. "Mike's strategic mindset and collaborative leadership style will play a key role in advancing our long-term goals in the region," said Phillip Trier, executive vice president and head of Corporate Commercial Banking.

Trier expressed confidence in Lebens’ ability to positively impact Associated’s existing and potential clients, enhancing overall community engagement. Schmidt, who has announced his retirement intentions for 2025, has been instrumental in developing the bank's strategy in the area since his arrival in 2015.

Grand Opening of the New Branch

The grand opening event at the IDS Center showcased the bank’s commitment to providing enhanced services. Located at 80 S 8th St, the new branch spans over 1,665 square feet of retail space, coupled with more than 6,000 square feet of office space, reflecting a substantial investment in downtown Minneapolis. This strategic relocation from the former Baker Center branch also signifies a 400-square-foot increase in space, enabling the bank to cater more effectively to both existing customers and new businesses attracted to the burgeoning downtown area.

"Relocating to the IDS Center, a landmark that is renowned without needing an address, reflects our dedication to the heart of Minneapolis," stated Schmidt during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The bank plans to deepen its connections with local clientele while contributing to the economic momentum of the region with its comprehensive banking services.

Comprehensive Banking Services Offered

The new IDS Center location will offer a full suite of banking services including:

• - Personal Banking
• - Commercial Banking
• - Wealth Solutions
• - Commercial Real Estate Services
• - Private Banking

This expansion is part of a broader strategy by Associated Bank to enhance its offerings in the Greater Twin Cities area. In conjunction with the new branch, the bank is moving its Minneapolis offices to the 43rd floor of the IDS Center, aiming to accommodate around 100 employees across important business lines such as commercial banking and relationship management. This office relocation is expected to double the footprint previously held at the PwC Tower by Spring 2026.

About Associated Banc-Corp

Headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Associated Banc-Corp is the largest bank holding company in the state, overseeing total assets of $44 billion. It stands as a key player in the Midwest banking sector with nearly 200 banking locations serving over 100 communities across Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri. Associated Bank is designated as an Equal Housing Lender, Equal Opportunity Lender, and Member FDIC.

As Associated Bank positions itself for the future in flourishing markets like Minneapolis, it demonstrates a proactive approach to community banking, ensuring that its roots in the regions it serves go deeper while expanding its horizons further than ever before.