Brian Knauer
Firstrust Bank, the largest family-owned financial institution in the Philadelphia region, has appointed Brian Knauer as Vice President and Relationship Manager for its Commercial Banking team in Maryland. The move signals the bank’s continued expansion into the Mid-Atlantic market and its commitment to personalized banking solutions for growing enterprises.
Knauer, a seasoned banking executive with over two decades of experience in commercial lending and client relationship management, will serve as a key point of contact for mid-sized businesses across Maryland. Before joining Firstrust, he held senior roles at both regional and national financial institutions, where he specialized in structuring credit facilities, treasury management, and strategic growth financing for privately held companies. His background includes deep sector knowledge in manufacturing, professional services, construction, and healthcare—industries that continue to anchor Maryland’s economic base.
“Brian brings a strategic mindset and a relationship-first approach to banking, which aligns perfectly with our core values,” said Tim Abell, CEO of Firstrust Bank. “His expertise and deep roots in the Maryland market make him uniquely positioned to help business owners navigate the financial landscape and unlock new opportunities.”
Known for his hands-on approach, Knauer has built a reputation for being more than a banker—often acting as a strategic advisor to the companies he serves. He plans to leverage Firstrust’s entrepreneurial culture and suite of commercial services to tailor solutions for clients seeking personalized support in a post-consolidation banking environment.
Firstrust, which has been family-owned for three generations and boasts nearly $5 billion in assets. The bank’s growing presence in Maryland follows recent hiring activity and increased investment in its business banking infrastructure across the Mid-Atlantic.
Read More: Firstrust Bank Taps Brian Knauer to Lead Commercial Banking Growth in
