Chad Ballard joined Northwest Bank as Chief Information Officer on May 18, 2026, reporting to CEO Louis Torchio and leading IT strategy across 151 branches. He brings over 25 years of technology leadership, including developing a Know Your Customer platform and deploying AI agents at Wells Fargo.
Chad Ballard assumed the role of Chief Information Officer at Northwest Bank on May 18, 2026, reporting directly to President and CEO Louis Torchio. In this capacity, he oversees information technology strategy and operations across the bank’s 151 full-service financial centers and 11 drive-up locations.
Ballard brings more than 25 years of experience from leadership positions at Wells Fargo, JP Morgan Chase and PNC. At Wells Fargo he developed a Know Your Customer platform and deployed AI agents to enhance operational efficiency.
As CIO, Ballard will drive technology initiatives to strengthen operational efficiency and enhance customer and associate experiences. His focus will include modernizing core banking systems, digital channels and AI-driven solutions to support Northwest Bank’s growth.
Northwest Bank operates 151 full-service centers across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and Indiana and offers personal and business banking, employee benefits and wealth management services. The bank is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, and is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.
