First Bank Appoints Will Aiken to Lead CarBucks, SBA and Asset Lending
First Bank named Will Aiken Managing Director of Specialty Businesses to oversee CarBucks, SBA lending, bankcard, syndications and asset-based lending. Aiken brings over 20 years of credit and risk management experience from executive roles at Southern First Bank and South State Bank.
1. Appointment Details
First Bank appointed Will Aiken as Managing Director, Specialty Businesses, effective April 2026. In this capacity, he will oversee CarBucks, SBA lending, bankcard, syndications and asset-based lending operations across 113 branches in North Carolina and South Carolina.
2. Aiken’s Background
Aiken brings over 20 years of banking experience in credit, risk management and specialty lending, having served as Chief Risk Officer at Southern First Bank and Chief Commercial Credit Officer at South State Bank. His expertise spans portfolio oversight, underwriting standards and strategic risk mitigation.
3. Strategic Implications
This appointment underscores First Bank’s focus on scaling its $12.7 billion asset base through specialized lending channels. Strengthening leadership in these high-margin units aims to drive long-term shareholder value and regional market expansion.