Republic First Bancorp appoints new CEO and CFO

By Gloria Methri

Republic First Bancorp, the holding company for Republic First Bank has welcomed Thomas X. Geisel as Chief Executive Officer and President. Geisel has a diverse financial services background, including leadership experience in regional banks for more than 20 years – most recently as President, Corporate Banking, at Webster Bank (formally Sterling National Bank). He will be a member of Republic First Bancorp’s Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Additionally, Michael W. Harrington will take over as Chief Financial Officer. Harrington brings extensive experience in the banking community and financial services, most recently as CFO of Bryn Mawr Trust.

The new leadership team will continue to evaluate capital alternatives and drive profitable growth.

Speaking on his appointment, Geisel said, “I am excited to be part of the Republic First team at this critical moment. We believe the Company has excellent opportunities to better serve our customers and create increased value for shareholders by focusing on strengthening the bank’s foundation and re-orienting our business strategy. In doing so, we will leverage the strengths of the brand and create a diverse and digitally fluent commercial bank that provides an exceptional client and colleague experience.”

Meanwhile, Harrington said, “I am confident that Republic First can serve its customers and communities well while generating better returns and profit for its shareholders. I look forward to working with Tom and the rest of the team at Republic First.”

Republic First founder Harry Madonna will step down from the Interim CEO role, which he has held since August of this year, and will continue as Chairman during the transition to new leadership. Jonathan Hill, who served as Interim CFO since October, will return to his role as Controller.

Madonna said, “We are thrilled to welcome Tom and Mike to the management ranks at Republic First. Together, they bring more than five decades of experience in the banking and financial services industries, specifically in transforming and growing organizations as well as working with regulators. We support the strategic vision Tom and Mike have laid out for the company.”