Commercial Lenders

Todd Maki

CEO President 

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Jay Owens

VP Commercial Lender

(906) 786-0222 ext 322

“Take advantage of opportunities with confidence, purpose, and enthusiasm”

With over 30 years of experience in banking, I started in consumer and mortgage lending before becoming a commercial lender. My background includes working as an investment representative for a major brokerage firm.

I graduated from Escanaba High School and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration emphasis in Finance from Northern Michigan University. Then earned an MBA from the University of Phoenix and additional training at the Northern Michigan School of Banking.

I originate in commercial loans, including financing for business acquisitions, equipment, commercial vehicles, commercial real estate, and working capital lines of credit. Additional I oversee the business credit card program and work closely with our commercial credit analysts.

Spending time with my wife, children, and grandchildren is one of my favorite past times, as well as golfing and biking. I serve on the finance council of St. Joseph & St. Patrick Parish and have been an active member of the Lions Club for 35 years, currently serving as Secretary of the Wells Lions Club.

Kyle Closs

Commercial Lender AVP

Phone (906) 786-3355

“Work hard and be patient, the rest will follow”

I have 10 years of experience in commercial banking, with a bachelor's degree in Finance and Risk Management from Northern Michigan University and a master's in Finance from Colorado State University. I will graduate from the Graduate School of Banking in the summer of 2025.

I primarily lend to small business owners in various sectors, including trucking, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality, while focusing on building community relationships. Growing up in the Upper Peninsula, I understand its unique needs.

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities with my family, especially hunting and fishing. I also serve on the Gladstone Downtown Development Authority board, promoting growth in the downtown area.

Jared Ogren

Commercial Lender

Phone (906) 786-3355 ex 119

"Stay Positive, Work hard, Make it Happen"

I am a graduate of Escanaba High School and have obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Finance from Northern Michigan University. As a commercial lender, my primary focus is on providing loans to businesses for their operating costs and new projects. I also enjoy helping individuals who want to buy or start their own businesses. At First Bank, we offer our business customers a range of financing options, including short-term and long-term loans, lines of credit, equipment loans, and building loans. Additionally, I am proud to help First Bank with its Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) program, which is dedicated to meeting the financial needs of the communities we serve.

Having lived in the Escanaba/Gladstone community for about 25 years, I truly appreciate our small-town charm. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and either watching or playing sports. I am also actively involved in the Escanaba Downtown Development Authority board, where I can put my passion for helping the community into action.

EJ Kostreva

President

Phone (906) 228-7300

EJ Kostreva has made Michigan his home for over 52 years, drawing from a rich history and a commitment to community service. A proud graduate of Westwood High School, EJ furthered his education at Northern Michigan University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.

His professional journey in banking began in 1989, and since 2003, he has been a pivotal figure at First Bank, currently serving as the President of the Northern Division. With expertise in commercial lending, EJ has played a key role in various sectors, including mortgage, consumer, and grounds lending, driving economic growth and financial stability in the community.

EJ's dedication goes beyond banking. He actively contributes to local organizations as a board member of Dead River Campers Inc. and serves as the Chairman of the Board for Bell Hospital, highlighting his commitment to healthcare and community well-being. A member of Cross Bridge Church, he engages with his faith community and participates in various church activities.

In addition to his professional and community commitments, EJ embraces his passions for the outdoors, being an avid fisherman and hunter who relishes the opportunity to explore Michigan's beautiful landscapes. Sports also play an essential role in his life; he plays for the Negaunee Hockey League and participates in the church softball team. He also invests his time in coaching, having guided local football and baseball teams, fostering youth development and teamwork.

EJ has been happily married to Christy for 32 years, and together they cherish their family, which includes their sons, Eric, Ethan, and Luke. Family means everything to EJ, and he treasures the time spent with them.

With a deep sense of responsibility toward his community and a wealth of experience in banking and leadership, EJ Kostreva exemplifies dedication and service in every aspect of his life.

Ron Bennetts

Senior VP & Chief Credit Officer

Phone (906) 228-7300 

I am a proud Yooper, born and raised in Calumet, Michigan, with over 30 years of experience in the banking industry. Currently, I serve as Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer at First Bank Upper Michigan's Marquette branch, where I oversee credit policies and lending operations to support both the bank's growth and our clients' success.

I started my career at Northern Michigan Bank in May 1995, progressing from branch manager to Assistant Vice President of Consumer Lending, and later moving into commercial lending. I hold an Associate's Degree in Business and a Bachelor's Degree in Finance from Northern Michigan University and am committed to supporting local businesses and regional economic growth.

Outside of work, I cherish the Upper Peninsula lifestyle, enjoying snowmobiling, golfing, jet-skiing, and working on vehicles with my son. I'm also a member of the Michigan Snowmobile Association and the Marquette Economic Club.

Joe Havican

VP Senior Lending Officer

Phone (906) 228-7300 ext 520

I have 36 years of banking experience, including 23 years in commercial lending. I have lived in Marquette my entire life and graduated from Marquette Senior High School and Northern Michigan University. 

I served as the Past President of the Marquette Rotary Club and have contributed 25 years of service to Rotary. Additionally, I have been the Secretary/Treasurer of the Marquette Tennis Association since 1986. 

I also coached JV Boys' Basketball at Marquette Senior High School for 13 years. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis and spending time with my grandkids.