Wells Fargo & Company has promoted Greg O’Brien to division manager of its recently established Wells Fargo Commercial Banking New England Division. Anchored in Boston, the New England Division plans to open several new offices throughout the five-state region, where traditional industries are making a comeback.
 
O’Brien leads a team of 28 Commercial Banking professionals who serve middle-market companies in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and Rhode Island. In addition, Wells Fargo’s Commercial Banking Group in New England includes specialty bankers who serve the technology, life sciences, and beverage sectors.

O’Brien, a 30-year industry veteran, most recently served as the group regional vice president for Wells Fargo’s New England Regional Commercial Banking Office (RCBO). In his new role, he will oversee the broad expansion of Wells Fargo Commercial Banking to new markets in New England, anticipating the opening of several new office locations in late 2015. Reporting to him in Boston are Gary Pirri and Jeff Kinney, regional vice presidents for the Middle Markets RCBO, serving customers with $20 million to $250 million in revenue, and Mid-Corporate RCBO, serving customers with revenue above $250 million.

“New England is a strong growth market, and Wells Fargo is committed to putting boots on the ground where our customers live and work,” said O’Brien, who noted New England has experienced a resurgence of traditional industries such as energy, real estate, and professional services. “By growing our network and recruiting top talent in northern New England, western and central Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, we are able to better reach our customers and communities in the region.”

John Manning, head of Wells Fargo Commercial Banking’s East Region, cites New England as one of the strongest growth markets in the region. Under his leadership, the company intends to expand its reach throughout the East, including new offices in New Jersey and the New York boroughs, later this year.

“Greg has tremendous experience and a deep understanding of our customers, their businesses, and the nuances of the New England markets,” said Manning. “His leadership will be invaluable in helping middle-market companies succeed financially as we expand locally throughout the region.”

With more than 140 offices in 38 states and three Canadian provinces, Wells Fargo Commercial Banking provides local service and decision-making for businesses with annual revenues of greater than $20 million. Asset-based lending, traditional secured loans, and capital markets provide access to working capital for day-to-day operations and growth.