Sean Kelleher
About Sean Kelleher
Sean Kelleher is the Managing Director of the ESOP Finance Group at First Financial Bank, with over 30 years of experience in commercial banking and a strong background in Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP).
Current Title and Role
Sean Kelleher currently serves as the Managing Director - ESOP Finance Group at First Financial Bank. He operates in the Greater Chicago Area, where he leverages his extensive experience in advising company owners and bankers on the benefits of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP). In this role, Sean works directly with business owners and bankers to provide comprehensive understanding and options for ownership transition.
Professional Experience at Fifth Third Bank
Sean Kelleher held several key positions at Fifth Third Bank, where he worked for a total of 18 years. From 2014 to 2020, he served as the Senior Relationship Manager Structured Finance and as Director of the ESOP Finance Group in the Greater Chicago Area. Prior to these roles, he was Vice President Team Lead Special Assets Group from 2011 to 2014, overseeing the North & West Regions including Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, and Wisconsin. He also led the Commercial Real Estate Lending Division as Vice President & Team Lead from 2002 to 2011.
Educational Background
Sean Kelleher studied at St. Joseph's College (IN) where he achieved a double major in Finance and Marketing, obtaining a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from 1988 to 1992. His strong educational foundation has supported his extensive career in commercial banking and various specialized finance roles.
Specialized Expertise and Industry Involvement
Sean Kelleher has extensive experience in commercial banking, particularly in advising on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP). He has led high-performing teams across specialty lending groups including Structured Finance, Transportation, and ESOP. Sean is also a member of the ESOP Associations Finance Committee and The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), contributing to his influence in change management within the banking sector.
Contributions During Economic Downturn
During the last recession, Sean Kelleher played a crucial role in helping clients navigate financial challenges. His experience includes working with and advising companies across various industries, particularly in financing land developers, home builders, and all types of commercial properties. He has also led multiple high-performing teams across national and regional banks' specialty lending groups.