Champaign, Ill.-based Busey Bank named James R. Weiss regional president of Florida.
An executive vice president, Weiss assumes the position from Charles Idelson, who had served as regional president in Florida since 2019 when the company he established, Investors’ Security Trust, merged with Busey. Idelson is expected to remain with the $12.4 billion bank and serve as market chair of its Florida region.
Weiss entered the banking industry in 1994 as an underwriter at Commerce Bank in Clayton, Mo., where he eventually became a first vice president. He later worked in executive positions for 16 years at regional institution Fifth Third Bank. A Florida Bankers Association board member, Weiss has a Bachelor of Science degree from Missouri-based Saint Louis University.
“As we continue to enhance our organizational structure and business model, we believe Jim’s leadership, vast experience across business segments and extensive knowledge of the Florida market are a perfect fit for Busey’s client-focused culture,” said President of Regional Banking Willie Mayberry. “He’s a hands-on leader with the skillset, motivation and personality to help Busey continue to build upon its significant success in the region.
“I look forward to leveraging my connections and experience across the state of Florida to accelerate the growth of the Busey franchise,” Weiss added. “I believe we’re uniquely positioned to leverage our strong financial condition to continue to expand and gain market share in the region.”