Steven Zandpour Joins Associated Bank's Executive Leadership Team in 2025

Steven Zandpour Joins Associated Bank's Executive Leadership Team

On December 12, 2024, Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) announced an important addition to its Executive Leadership Team (ELT). Steven Zandpour will take on the role of executive vice president and deputy head of Consumer and Business Banking, starting January 1, 2025. This pivotal move is anticipated to enhance the bank's strategic initiatives as it seeks to bolster growth and improve customer service.

Zandpour brings a wealth of experience to Associated Bank, having joined the organization in January 2024. At that time, he focused on key areas such as consumer and small business growth, overseeing the branch network and contact centers. His leadership has already made a noticeable impact in these areas, with an emphasis on delivering a better customer experience. By broadening his responsibilities to include Consumer Lending, Zandpour will now hold accountability for all revenue growth within the Consumer and Business Banking segments.

David Stein, executive vice president and head of Consumer and Business Banking, expressed confidence in Zandpour's abilities. "Steve's people-first leadership style and commitment to both colleagues and customers has helped us grow our business throughout 2024. His new role will further enhance our capacity to deliver product and service improvements that resonate with our customers’ needs across our diverse operational footprint," Stein stated.

Andrew J. Harmening, president and CEO of Associated Bank, also highlighted Zandpour's strategic thinking and results-driven attitude as essential for the bank's future success. "Since joining, Steve has demonstrated leadership qualities that align perfectly with our objectives during this strategic phase. His insight will be valuable as we navigate the next chapter of our growth," Harmening noted.

Before joining Associated Bank, Zandpour held significant positions at BMO in Chicago, where he was the U.S. head of Specialty Sales, significantly contributing to various financial sectors, including mortgage and business banking. His extensive background also includes a 14-year tenure at Fifth Third Bank in Illinois, providing him with a broad perspective on banking operations and market dynamics.

"The opportunity to contribute to the success of our strategic plan through a people-centric approach with superior products is something I value greatly," Zandpour commented. His dedication to enhancing consumer value through excellent banking practices positions him well for the challenges ahead.

Education and Community Involvement

Zandpour holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and a Bachelor of Science in economics from the University of Iowa. His community engagement includes significant involvement with City Year Chicago, the Valley of the Sun United Way Cabinet, and the Arizona Science Center, showcasing his commitment to giving back and fostering community ties.

Zandpour will be based in Milwaukee, a strategic location that reinforces Associated Bank's commitment to its customers across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. The bank is a leading financial institution with total assets of $42 billion, operating nearly 200 banking locations and loan production offices across multiple states.

As Associated Banc-Corp continues to evolve and expand its reach, the inclusion of leaders like Steven Zandpour in its Executive Leadership Team signifies a commitment to enhancing customer experiences and driving continued growth in an ever-competitive banking landscape.