PNC appoints Adam Sands to lead Colorado, Arizona markets

PITTSBURGH — The PNC Financial Services Group has named Adam Sands, currently chief banking officer at FirstBank, as chief market executive for PNC’s Colorado and Arizona markets following the company’s planned acquisition of FirstBank Holding Company.

PNC announced its agreement to acquire FirstBank, headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, on Sept. 8. The transaction is pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

In his new role, Sands will oversee market executives and banking teams across Colorado and Arizona, focusing on business development, client relationships and community engagement. He will report to Jeff Warner, PNC’s head of small business.

“We are thrilled at the prospect of welcoming someone of Adam’s caliber and banking expertise to this key leadership role at PNC,” Warner said. “I look forward to building upon the strong relationships he and his team have developed at FirstBank, particularly in the commercial real estate space, to deliver even more capabilities for their clients and communities.”

Sands will work closely with Kevin Classen, CEO of FirstBank, who will become PNC’s Colorado regional president and territory leader for the Mountain States, including Arizona and Utah, after the conversion.

“I’m excited to partner with Adam in our next chapter at PNC,” Classen said. “His leadership and deep market knowledge will be instrumental as we build on FirstBank’s strong foundation and continue to serve our communities and customers with excellence.”

Sands said he looks forward to continuing FirstBank’s legacy under PNC.

“I am honored to accept the future role of chief market executive for PNC’s Colorado and Arizona markets,” Sands said. “Our focus remains on helping businesses grow, expanding commercial real estate lending and strengthening the communities where we live and work.”

PNC said the appointments reflect its commitment to a community-based leadership model and continuity across its regional markets.