MonitorDaily has reported that WesBanco is expanding its commercial banking operations into South Florida as part of its broader southeastern growth strategy, establishing a presence in key markets including Palm Beach and Broward counties. The expansion is being supported by the hiring of an experienced team of commercial banking leaders focused on serving middle-market and commercial clients in the region.
The South Florida team will be led by Eddy Rodriguez, who joins WesBanco as executive vice president and regional president. Rodriguez brings nearly 30 years of experience in commercial banking with major financial institutions and will oversee the bank’s regional development and client relationships.
Two market presidents will lead WesBanco’s local market strategy. Steven Goldstein will focus on Palm Beach County and brings more than three decades of experience in commercial financial services. Tony Mandravellos will lead the bank’s efforts in Broward County and has nearly 30 years of experience in the commercial banking sector.
The expansion also includes a broader team of specialists in commercial lending, credit underwriting, and relationship management, bringing together decades of regional banking expertise.
WesBanco executives say the move reflects the bank’s long-term strategy of expanding across the Southeast while strengthening relationships with existing clients who already have ties to South Florida.
“These South Florida markets are significant growth centers,” said Jeff Jackson, president and CEO of WesBanco. “We are excited to enter these markets with this seasoned team of bankers whose customer focus and values align with our relationship-led approach and strong credit standards.”
According to Jay Zatta, senior executive vice president and chief banking officer, many of WesBanco’s existing clients already have meaningful connections to the region, including second homes or operating businesses.
Establishing a regional presence, he said, will allow the bank to support those relationships more directly while also pursuing new commercial banking opportunities in the area. By building a dedicated team in South Florida, WesBanco aims to expand its presence in a rapidly growing economic region while continuing to focus on relationship-driven commercial banking services.