First Citizens Bank announced that James Ligman has joined as a managing director in its Middle Market Banking business to lead expansion efforts in the Orange County and Inland Empire regions.

In this role, Ligman will be responsible for developing, maintaining and expanding client and prospect relationships throughout the middle market financing sector. Based in Newport Beach, he will report to Brendan Chambers, who leads First Citizens Middle Market Banking.

“We are excited to welcome James to our growing Middle Market Banking team,” Chambers said. “His banking expertise, agility and commitment to excellence will be a valuable asset for middle market companies seeking any financial products and services in our wide range of offerings for businesses with revenues from $75 million to $750 million.”

With more than 3 million residents, Orange County is one of the largest and most economically vibrant regions of the state, as is nearby Inland Empire. Taken together, the two territories are home to hundreds of middle market companies in need of financial services.

Ligman comes to First Citizens from PNC Bank, where he worked in the corporate banking group in Orange County. Earlier in his career, he worked for BBVA USA and Wells Fargo, also in Orange County.