Meet Our Business Banking Team

Patrick Raftery

Vice President, Business Banking
11611 Meridian Street, Suite 175, Carmel, IN 46032
(317) 574-0436, ext. 3901
praftery@centier.com

A career banker, Pat Raftery has more than 28 years of experience and knowledge of local and national markets, making him an expert in managing large commercial loan portfolio accounts. As a business banker servicing the Indianapolis and central Indiana region, Pat is committed to providing the individual attention necessary to help local business meet their financial goals.

Pat received his bachelor's degree in finance from Indiana University and his master's degree in business administration from Butler University. A military veteran, Pat spent 12 years in the United States Navy. His community service activities include serving as a Division Chairman for the Greater Lafayette United Way Campaign, Mosel Sanders Thanksgiving Dinner volunteer, and as a Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Financial Literacy instructor.

Jeff Olds

Vice President, Business Banking
11611 Meridian Street, Suite 175, Carmel, IN 46032
(317) 574-0436, ext. 3902
jolds@centier.com

Jeff Olds joins Centier with more than 25 years of experience in commercial lending, commercial real estate finance, and investments. A lifelong resident of Indianapolis, Jeff has experience with growing markets and an extensive knowledge of local markets, specializing in commercial real estate since 1992. He services businesses in the Indianapolis and Greater Indianapolis region.

"Relationship banking is an important dynamic in today's business atmosphere," stated Jeff. "I'm engaged in my client's business planning so that I can offer better solutions for their future and growth."

Jeff is a graduate of St. Joseph's College and is a member of the JCC.

Dave Bowers

Senior Vice President, Business Banking
11611 Meridian Street, Suite 175, Carmel, IN 46032
(317) 574-0436, ext. 3904
dbowers@centier.com

For more than 27 years, David Bowers has helped build business in Carmel and the greater Indianapolis region. As Senior Vice President of Business Banking, David is responsible for managing commercial lending in the Carmel/Indianapolis area, as well as Lafayette and other Central Indiana markets.

David is a career commercial banker with extensive knowledge of both Commercial Real Estate and C & I lending with Indianapolis businesses. A dedicated banker with a vested interest in the community he lives in, David keeps his hand on the pulse of local industries and local markets that Centier serves.

He currently works with developers and business owners to expand business in Carmel by serving on the Carmel Redevelopment Commission. A lifelong resident of Carmel, he has previously been board president for Habitat for Humanity of Hamilton County, board member of The Friends of the Carmel Library and coached with the Carmel Dad’s Club.

Darrell Jaggers

Senior Partner / Lending
600 E. 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 755-4740
djaggers@centier.com

As the Senior Partner and Senior Manager of all lending functions for Centier, Darrell Jaggers is responsible for the strategic direction and business development efforts for all business, consumer and residential mortgage lending located across Northern and Central Indiana.

Raised in Central Indiana, Darrell was educated at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis. He has spent most of his 30+ year business career in banking, arranging credit for all sectors of the real estate, C & I and small business industries in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, Indiana, Austin, Texas and Northern Indiana.

Community banking is the heart and soul of economic development and job growth for our communities is one of Darrell’s strong beliefs. He also feels that being a professional banker means more than just offering financial services and products to customers. It means being involved in all sectors of our communities and supporting the development of quality lifestyle for our current and future generations. As such, he has served on numerous community boards, organizations and projects including the Allen County United Way Board, Allen County/Fort Wayne Historical Society Board, Vincent House Board, Project Renew, Allen County Economic Development Forum, Forum for the Review of Local Government and Leadership Fort Wayne.

Darrell is also a 30 year veteran of the U.S. Army, the Indiana Army National Guard and Texas Army National Guard. He served as a CH-47 Chinook helicopter pilot and flight instructor with two combat tours in Vietnam, and an additional tour in South Korea.

Darrell is based at Centier’s corporate headquarters in Merrillville, Indiana.

Tom Wilk

Senior Vice President / Department Manager
600 E. 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 755-6150 x 1827
twilk@centier.com

For more than 26 years, Tom Wilk has helped build business in Northern Indiana. As the Senior Vice President of Business Banking, Tom is responsible for managing 17 commercial lenders throughout Lake, Porter, La Porte, Marshall, St. Joseph, Allen, and Tippecanoe Counties in Indiana. He has extensive knowledge of commercial real estate lending and keeps his hand on the pulse of the industry and local markets that Centier serves.

Tom earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Indiana University and is a graduate of the American Bankers Association’s Stonier Graduate School of Banking.

Tom also serves on the board and loan committee for the Regional Development Company, is a member of the Merrillville Rotary Club, and is also a member and past board member of the Gary Sportsmen Club.

Rich Day

Vice President, Cash Management Manager
600 E. 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 755-6150 x 1017
rday@centier.com

Richard Day is the manager of commercial cash management, and oversees product sales and development and new business development for Centier’s business banking team. He joins Centier with more than 17 years of banking and financial services experience. Prior to joining Centier, Rich was a division manager for a Chicago bank, and brings a vast knowledge of cash management services for a dynamic spectrum of businesses. He previously worked in corporate treasury management and retail management.

“I am very excited to join Centier and be a part of its growing focus on the needs of the business community. Aligning lending with a full suite of cash management options positions Centier as a lending leader in Northern Indiana,” stated Rich.

Rich received his bachelor’s degree in finance from Ball State University and his master’s degree in business from Indiana University. Rich is a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Crown Point and the Gary Sportsmen Club.

Ed Schiesser

Vice President, Business Banking
600 East 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 755-6199 x 1633
eschiess@centier.com

Ed Schiesser is a seasoned loan officer with over 30 years experience in management, mortgage loans and underwriting, and construction loans.

Ed services a diverse and widespread area, including Lake, Porter, and La Porte counties. According to Ed, “In order to be successful in business, you have to know your customer and listen to their needs. Community involvement is a great way to network and build relationships.”

Ed is very well-known in his community for his longstanding commitment to the Crown Point Lions Club for the past 25 years, 14 years with Southlake County’s Rebuilding Together and 15 years with Meals on Wheels.

Tim Warner

Vice President, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 477-2733 x 2144
twarner@centier.com

Tim Warner specializes in meeting the borrowing, cash management, and investment needs for small to medium-sized businesses, primarily small manufacturers and service-oriented operations.

With more than 24 years of experience in commercial banking and credit management, Tim has assisted businesses with borrowing needs ranging from $25,000 to $20 million. In addition, he has developed a specialty working with nonprofit organizations, ranging from faith-based to municipalities.

A resident of Valparaiso, Tim is a board member and committee chair for the Porter County United Way, board member and treasurer of HealthLinc Community Health Center, board member and treasurer for the Valparaiso Rotary, and board member of the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. He is also a volunteer for the Hilltop Neighborhood House and active with St. Paul Church and School in Valparaiso.

Chris Campbell

Vice President/Group Manager, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 477-2733 x 2146
ccampbel@centier.com

Chris Campbell joined Centier in 2006, and is Group Manager of business bankers servicing Lake, Porter, La Porte, and Marshall County Communities.

Chris is committed to providing the individual attention necessary to help local business meet its financial goals. “Many of our clients value our unique approach to business,” states Chris. “We view business banking as a partnership and are emotionally invested in the success of our clients.”

Prior to joining Centier, Chris worked at the Nasdaq Stock Market and Legg Mason specializing in finance and macroeconomics.

Chris earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Wittenberg University and a Master of Business Administration from Valparaiso University.

Mark Baird

Vice President, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 477-2733 x 2145
mbaird@centier.com

Mark Baird joined the Centier Commercial Lending division in 2004. Since that time, he has worked to provide financing for commercial real estate, commercial construction, and medical facilities throughout the Porter County area.

“Centier has a commitment to not only serve our communities, but to improve our communities, by financing projects that will enhance the quality of life,” Mark said.

Mark has more than 23 years of commercial lending experience in Northern Indiana. He holds degrees from both Purdue University and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a member of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, Porter County Fair Board, and is a Porter County ACS Relay for Life volunteer.

Mark specializes in:

• Commercial construction
• Multi-family housing development

Amy Kezy

Vice President, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 477-2733 x 2155
akezy@centier.com

Amy Kezy, vice president of Business Banking, specializes in new construction, commercial and residential real estate development. As a career business banker with over 20 years of experience, she is committed to providing the individual attention necessary to help business owners meet current market demands.

“We build relationships with our clients and are not transaction-based. We want to be our client’s provider of choice for all banking needs, beyond business banking,” states Amy.

Amy earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, postbaccalaureate certificate in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration from Indiana University.

She is an active member of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce and sits on the Chamber’s Welcome Committee.

Jonathan Hildebrand

Vice President, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 477-2733 x 2153
jhildebr@centier.com

As a commercial loan officer, Jonathan Hildebrand oversees lending to businesses in Porter and La Porte Counties. Jonathan began his career with Centier in 2000, and has experience in many facets of banking.

A graduate of the Indiana Banker’s Association Commercial Lending School, Jonathan obtained his Masters of Business Administration from Valparaiso University. He is an active member of the Valparaiso Rotary Club and holds a position on the Northwest Indiana Board for Junior Achievement of Chicago.

“I like to discuss business operations with my clients and how they translate into financial statements,” stated Jonathan. “This helps me comprehend their needs based on their industry and niche in the marketplace.”

He specializes in lending to:

• Multi-Family Residential Rental Properties
• Owner-Occupied Commercial Real Estate
• Commercial and Industrial Rental Properties
• Faith-Based Organizations

Curt Gill

Vice President, Business Banking
150 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-1073 x 2147
cgill@centier.com

One of Centier’s most seasoned business bankers, Curt Gill has nearly 40 years of banking experience. In his 29 years as a commercial banker with Centier, Curt has helped establish some of the most recognized businesses in Northern Indiana.

Curt continues to develop new business clients by keeping informed of local and national events that affect the business environment. His approach to business is to be well-informed and share his knowledge with his clients.

A resident of Valparaiso for over 30 years, Curt has served the NWI community in numerous volunteer leadership positions, including the Valparaiso Economic Development Commission, Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation, American Cancer Society, and Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce.

Greg Gordon

Vice President/Group Manager, Business Banking
Residential Builder Division
600 East 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 755-6165 x 1721
ggordon@centier.com

Greg Gordon has more than 21 years of banking experience in Lake County, Indiana. As a Business Banking Group Manager, Greg is committed to providing the individual attention necessary to help local business meet its financial goals.

Greg is a past president of the Crown Point Chamber of Commerce, where he remains an active member. His community involvement makes him focused on things that are mutually beneficial to his clients and the markets he serves. “The primary focus of relationship banking is to understand our clients’ needs so that we can provide solutions. We focus on the interactions, not just the transactions.”

Greg earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Purdue University. He specializes in real estate investment properties and commercial lending.

Jack Esala

Vice President, Business Banking
600 East 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 755-6165 x 1722
jesala@centier.com

One of Centier’s most seasoned business bankers, Jack Esala has more than 34 years of banking experience. In his 30 years as a banker with Centier, Jack has helped establish some of the most recognized businesses in the Northern Indiana area.

Jack feels that Centier differs from most banks because of its willingness to seek out options to get the deal done. His clients appreciate his honesty and openness, especially in today’s competitive business environment.

Jack is a longtime member and past president of the Crown Point Rotary, past board member of the Crown Point Community Foundation, and volunteer for the American Cancer Society and Trinity Lutheran Church and School.

Paul Thiel

Vice President, Business Banking
600 East 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 755-6165 x 1723
pthiel@centier.com

Since 2001, Paul Thiel has been a business banker with Centier. Paul has held various positions during his tenure with Centier, from private banker to commercial lender.

A graduate of Marian University, Paul is very active in the Crown Point Chamber of Commerce and Crown Point Youth Baseball. Paul’s involvement in the community affords him the opportunity to have his pulse on community needs. “Knowing the local business environment helps you prepare clients for strong times, as well as the more challenging periods,” said Paul.

“We’re not transactional, we’re interactional. Our approach to personalized service helps us develop long-term relationships.”

Stephanie Schrage

Commercial Loan Officer
600 East 84th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 755-6165 x 1223
sschrage@centier.com

Stephanie began her banking career in 2007, working with several national banks before joining Centier’s Risk Management Division in 2010. As a Commercial Loan Officer in Centier’s Business Banking Division, she is now responsible for portfolio management, servicing clients in the Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland markets.

Stephanie received her B.A. & M.B.A. from the University of Miami before moving to Chicago, IL. She recently graduated from the Indiana Banker’s Association Commercial Lending School in Indianapolis, IN and is working on her graduate banking degree with the Southwest Graduate School of Banking based out of Dallas, TX.

Zoran Koricanac

Vice President/Group Manager, Business Banking
9701 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 46322
(219) 922-2410 x 4317
zkorican@centier.com

Zoran Koricanac has been a driving force in commercial lending for over 25 years. As a group manager for Centier’s business banking team, he has a strong interest in commercial real estate lending in Northwest Indiana.

An experienced commercial lender, Zoran is wellversed in structuring a variety of financial solutions for his clients. He has financed projects from retail centers to hotels, with loans ranging from $500,000 to $25 million.

Since joining the Centier business banking team in 2007, Zoran has successfully worked with clients in Lake County, Indiana, and the Chicago Metropolitan area to develop new business ventures and grow existing ones.

Zoran earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Eastern Illinois University.

Tom Neuffer

Vice President, Business Banking
9701 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 46322
(219) 922-2410 x 4310
tneuffer@centier.com

For more than 28 years, Tom Neuffer has been helping businesses grow and prosper in Northwest Indiana. He has partnered with many local businesses to realize their dream of business ownership.

A former instructor for the American Institute of Banking and Ivy Tech, Tom has built a strong business clientele that includes longtime clients in residential and commercial real estate, excavating contractors, and Certified Public Accountants.

Well-known for his honest feedback, Tom encourages his clients to give back to the community. “In my experience, a successful business is one that is not only profitable, but remains concerned about the community,” stated Tom.

Antoinette Geddes

Business Banking Loan Officer
9701 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 46322
(219) 922-2410 x 4315
ageddes@centier.com

Antoinette Geddes oversees lending to small businesses in the Lake County region. Antoinette began her career with Centier in August 2008. As a member of the business banking team, Antoinette has spent lots of time getting to know her clients.

“When businesses are visible in the community and participate at the community level, they are fully supported by the community,” Antoinette said. “Good business comes full circle, and I know that if I am a good listener and am able to identify my clients’ needs, I can provide the resources to make their business succeed. By fully understanding my clients’ business needs, I am able to identify expert partners to assist in fully serving their needs.”

Antoinette earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Purdue University Calumet, and proudly served in the U.S. Navy for six years. She resides in Highland.

Mary Panas

Vice President, Business Banking
9701 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 46322
(219) 922-2410 x 4314
mpanas@centier.com

Mary Panas, vice president of Business Banking, specializes in financing all types of commercial real estate, along with providing lines of credit and equipment financing. As a career business banker with over 18 years of experience, she is committed to providing the individual attention necessary to help business owners meet current market demands.

Mary’s approach to business is to be well-informed and share her knowledge with her clients. She continues to develop new business clients by keeping informed of local programs that benefit area businesses.

Panas has her bachelor's degree in finance from Purdue University. She is a member of the Munster Chamber of Commerce, Lake County Advancement Committee, Regional Development Company loan committee (2008-2010), and the St. George Ladies Philoptochos Society.

Gerald Thompson

Vice President, Business Banking
9921 Dupont Circle Drive Suite 110
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
(260) 489-3945 x 3201
gthompso@centier.com

Gerald Thompson joined Centier Bank as vice president of business banking in 2007. He joins Centier with more than 33 years of banking experience. Jerry most recently worked for Tower Bank in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

As a commercial loan originator, Jerry is able to provide assistance with obtaining and managing commercial loans and real estate loans for residential development and home construction. He understands the impact of market conditions and makes sure to focus on his clients’ financial needs.

Jerry earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Fort Wayne and served in the United States Air Force. Jerry lives in Fort Wayne with his wife and has one daughter.

Dave Schnepp

Vice President, Business Banking
9921 Dupont Circle Drive Suite 110
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
(260) 489-3945 x 3202
dschnepp@centier.com

David Schnepp has over 35 years of banking experience serving the greater Fort Wayne community. During his career, he has helped some of the most successful businesses in Fort Wayne to achieve their goals.

“Centier is highly recognized as a leading lender in Northern Indiana,” David said. “They have adopted a value-based business philosophy that works to understand and meet the needs of our ever-changing communities. This, combined with a corporate pledge to remain independently owned and operated, makes Centier the ideal bank for community business.”

David earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Indiana University and is a graduate of the Commercial Banking School at the University of Oklahoma.

He currently serves as a board member of Fort Wayne Crime Stoppers and Acres Land Trust.

Philip Bundy

Vice President, Business Banking
9921 Dupont Circle Drive Suite 110
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
(260) 489-3945 x 3202
pbundy@centier.com

For over 19 years, Phil Bundy has been assisting clients with their banking needs. Beginning as a credit analyst, he navigated his way through the ranks to become a well seasoned business lender. He has worked for both local and national banks, and in 2007, joined the Centier team.

“Over the years, I have developed an ability to adapt business lending strategies to the dynamics of a changing economy. Making sure that I continue to service my client’s lending needs during these challenging times is my primary focus,” stated Phil.

A graduate of Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Phil has his bachelor’s degree in finance. A family man who also stays very active in his community, Phil has been a member of the Rockin’ Docs Music Fest for the past 10 years. He is also a member of the Directors and the Friars.

Patrick Morrissey

Community Bank President
323 Columbia St., Lafayette, IN 47901
(765) 423-4615
pmorriss@centier.com

As Community Bank President and career banker, Patrick Morrissey knows what it takes to help a business succeed. He treats his clients like partners and values the total business relationship.

Pat’s approach is to provide his business clients with financial tools that adequately service both customers and employees. He does not just sell products, he is a relationship banker who recognizes the importance of communicating and connecting with his clients.

Located at Centier’s Lafayette office, Pat specializes in commercial lending with an emphasis on commercial real estate financing. He is a member of the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Lafayette Elks, and Consumer Credit Counseling Services Inc. Advisory Board. A longtime resident of Lafayette, Pat enjoys golfing and attending local sporting events.

Stephanie Knoth

Vice President, Business Banking
323 Columbia St., Lafayette, IN 47901
(765) 423-4615
sknoth@centier.com

Stephanie Knoth has more than 15 years of experience in the Lafayette business community. During this time, Stephanie has assisted many businesses with financing rental properties for students as well as residential and commercial rental properties.

“Customer service is always key, but when you are working with a specific niche service or product, building relationships is even more imperative,” stated Stephanie. “I put a personal emphasis on customer service and building relationships with my clients.”

Stephanie is a graduate of Krannert School of Management at Purdue University. She currently serves as president on the board of directors for the Lyn Treece Boys and Girls Club of Tippecanoe County where she has been a member for 10 years.

Dan Peter

Vice President, Business Banking
323 Columbia St., Lafayette, IN 47901
(765) 423-4615
dpeter@centier.com

Dan Peter joined Centier in 2008 as a business banker in the Lafayette office. His specialties are commercial real estate and construction financing.

During his 18-year professional banking career, he has worked with all types and sizes of businesses. Dan enjoys helping his clients meet their financial goals - from providing funds for new student housing on Purdue’s campus, to construction funds for large assisted living and skilled nursing facilities on Lafayette’s rapidly growing east side.

Dan stays in touch with his community by volunteering his time to the Finance Committee at Victory Christian Center, coaching little league baseball, and as a member of the school board at Faith Christian School. He is also a small business seminar facilitator for Greater Lafayette Progress and holds an Indiana Real Estate License.

Steve Watts

Community Bank President
4215 Edison Lakes Parkway, Suite 100
Mishawaka, IN 46545
(574) 243-2822, ext. 4701
swatts@centier.com

In his 37 years of service as a career banker, Steve Watts has built experience in international banking, trust and investment management, and commercial lending.

A graduate of Ball State University and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Steve joined Centier in 2006 and serves as community bank president.

“A thorough understanding of our clients’ interests enables us to better advise them for their short-term and long-term plans. We have a complete menu of services to help them with their entire financial service needs,” stated Steve.

A strong example of community leadership, Steve is Chairman of the board of directors for the Boys & Girls Club of St. Joseph County, is a board member of Family and Children’s Center, and is treasurer of REAL Services, Inc., which services North Central Indiana. He serves on the Government Relations Committee for the Home Builder’s Association and is a member of the Downtown South Bend Rotary Club.

Steve specializes in:

• Commercial real estate development
• Commercial real estate construction
• Commercial real estate investment

Andy Brothers

Loan Portfolio Manager
4215 Edison Lakes Parkway, Suite 100
Mishawaka, IN 46545
(574) 243-2822, ext. 4702
abrother@centier.com

As loan portfolio manager, Andy Brothers is responsible for loan administration and involved in business development in Mishawaka, South Bend, and the Greater St. Joseph County area. Prior to joining Centier, Andy worked in commercial credit for another area bank. Additionally, Andy worked in Washington D.C., for a former member of Congress, representing the people of Saint Joseph County and North Central Indiana. There, he assisted with legislative research on bills before the House Budget Committee and the Committee on Ways and Means.

“Centier’s reputation for personalizing business relationships makes us a stand-out in our community,” stated Andy. “We are engaged in our client’s progress, involved in our community, and have the ability to react quickly to the dynamics of our ever-changing economy.”

A South Bend resident and native, Andy is a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in political science, and currently attends the University of Notre Dame in the executive management program.