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Midwest commercial bank earns recognition for the ninth consecutive year

Chicago, IL — November 13, 2025 — Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, has been named one of the 2025 Best Banks to Work For by American Banker, marking the ninth consecutive year the Chicago-based institution has earned this prestigious honor. The annual ranking recognizes banks that excel at cultivating exceptional workplace cultures that attract, develop, and retain top talent.

American Banker partners with Best Companies Group to identify the nation’s top employers in the banking industry through a rigorous assessment of workplace practices and an anonymous employee survey. This year, 90 banks earned a spot on the list.

“At Signature Bank, our culture is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “To be recognized for the ninth year in a row is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of Signature Bank’s teams to build strong, purposeful relationships with our customers, communities, and among each other.”

According to the employee engagement survey conducted as part of the Best Banks to Work For program, Signature Bank continues to demonstrate extraordinary cultural strength in key areas such as valued and trusted relationships with peers, supervisors, and leadership, a supportive work environment, and commitment to employee well-being. 

“The banks recognized as Best Banks to Work For are institutions employees want to join and stay,” said Chana Schoenberger, editor-in-chief of American Banker. “They understand how to give workers reasons to find purpose in their jobs.”

Best Companies Group manages the Best Banks to Work For initiative that involves a comprehensive two-step employer and employee survey and analyzing data to determine the final rankings.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is celebrating 20 years as an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About American Banker

American Banker empowers financial professionals with analysis and insight into the trends shaping the banking industry. Through its journalism, events, and research, American Banker connects a community of over 850,000 industry leaders every day.

About Best Companies Group

Since 2004, Best Companies Group has specialized in identifying and recognizing outstanding employers. As an independent research firm, it ranks organizations using rigorous methodologies that generate actionable data to help companies enhance employee engagement, recruitment, and retention.

Chicago-based commercial bank attributes growth to high-touch service, digital innovation, and strategic expansion 

Rosemont, IL (August 13, 2025) – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced it has once again secured a position on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This marks the fifth year of recognition, underscoring the bank’s sustained growth and steadfast commitment to client-focused, relationship-driven banking. 

“Earning a place on the Inc. 5000 list for the fifth year in a row is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team’s relentless dedication,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “Our growth stems from building trusted client partnerships and delivering the personalized service of a community bank with the capabilities of a larger institution—as demonstrated by our recent rise to number 12 on the Crain’s Chicago Business list of Largest Banks in Chicago.”

The Inc. 5000 list recognizes companies that have achieved significant revenue growth while navigating economic challenges. Signature Bank’s continued expansion has been driven by: 

Client-Centered Innovation

• Commercial banking expertise: Tailored solutions for privately held businesses across the Midwest
• Digital innovation: Cutting-edge platforms that enhance client convenience and efficiency
• Client loyalty: Long-term relationships and high retention driving consistent growth

Leadership & Expansion

• Entrepreneurial leadership: A founder-led executive team with firsthand business-building experience
• Culture of excellence: Recognized as a top workplace, attracting and retaining high-performing talent
• Strategic market expansion: Entering new verticals and regional markets aligned with the bank’s strengths

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.” 

About Signature Bank 

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About Inc.

Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com

Chicago-Based Bank Celebrates Major Milestone as One of the Region’s Largest and Fastest-Growing Commercial Banks

Rosemont, IL — July 9, 2025 — Signature Bank has proudly advanced to the No. 12 position on the prestigious Crain’s Chicago Business 2025 list of the Largest Banks in Chicago, up from No. 15 the previous year. This significant milestone reflects the bank’s robust growth, strong financial performance and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional commercial banking solutions across the Chicago and Wisconsin markets.

“Our improved ranking on Crain’s Chicago Business list demonstrates our ongoing commitment to exceeding expectations,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “We are pleased to further solidify our position as a trusted leader in Chicago’s commercial banking market, offering clients a combination of personalized service and sophisticated financial solutions that rival much larger institutions.”

This annual ranking, based on total assets as of December 31, 2024, highlights Signature Bank’s strategic momentum and elevated market presence. The bank’s upward trajectory is fueled by its focus on customer-centric service, innovative technology and forward-thinking financial strategies.

Key Drivers of Growth and Recognition

• Commercial Banking Excellence: Signature Bank specializes in relationship-based banking tailored to closely held companies throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, combining accessibility and strategic financial expertise.
• Digital Innovation: The bank continues to invest in advanced banking technologies to provide seamless, secure and efficient service for both commercial and retail clients.
• Award-Winning Workplace Culture: Named one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For, Signature Bank is powered by a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence.

This achievement further reinforces Signature Bank’s status as one of the fastest-growing, independently owned business banks in the Chicago-Wisconsin region.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Bank receives high marks from employees for supporting their growth and development, trustworthy leadership team, mutual respect among teams

ROSEMONT, IL [June 10, 2025] – The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has named Chicago-based Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, to Chicago’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® ranking. This is the eighth consecutive year Signature Bank has made the list.

Each year, NABR recognizes companies with the most innovative business and human resources practices. Employees are asked to provide insight into their workplace experience by rating several categories. These categories include teamwork and cooperation; employee education and development; culture, communication and shared vision; recruitment and selection; and compensation benefits and employee solutions.

An independent research firm assesses the winning companies and then compares several key measures against other nationally recognized winners. Signature Bank scored high marks in several areas, including teamwork and cooperation; employee education and development; culture, communication and shared vision; and recruitment and selection.

Highlights from the survey results included that most Signature Bank employees feel they can grow and learn on the job, and that the company supports their growth and development. Employees also trust leadership to make good decisions, feel respected by their coworkers and are able to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Signature Bank has earned numerous awards and recognitions for its growth and success. Most recently, the bank was named to the 2025 Inc. Regionals: Midwest list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Last year, Signature Bank earned a spot on the national Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in America and was named the 15 th largest bank in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business. American Banker also recognized the company as one of the Best Banks to Work for in the U.S., a notable distinction.

The Best and Brightest Chicago Celebration, which will honor Signature Bank and other winners, will be held at the Chicago Oakbrook Marriott on September 10.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Illinois Bankers Association development program guides future industry leaders through professional development, community service, and networking

ROSEMONT, IL [March 11, 2025] – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced it has selected three accomplished employees to participate in the Future Leaders Alliance (FLA) program offered through the Illinois Bankers Association. The 14-month leadership program is dedicated to enhancing the professional development of new and promising bank leaders through three primary components: education, community service, and networking.

Joe Bicek, Credit Analyst II; Matt Loffredo, Credit Analyst II; and Ciaran McCarthy, Internal Audit Associate were selected based on their strong work ethic, leadership potential and service to the Chicago community.

“The Future Leaders Alliance program is a valuable opportunity to cultivate and equip employees who exhibit potential, vision, and determination,” Michael Kowall, Vice President, Credit Administration. “Joe, Matt, and Ciaran already deliver great results in the work they do every day, and through this program they will build on that foundation by learning different ways to grow those same qualities in the people around them. By supporting their professional development through the FLA, we are not just making an investment in their careers but also in the future of Signature Bank.”

Future Leaders Alliance participants take part in comprehensive training which involves attending educational sessions, completing an advancement strategy project and performing local community service teaching financial literacy. The education sessions cover core topics such as leadership and influence, team building, coaching, service leadership, collaboration skills, financial marketing, personal branding, legislative process, presentation skills, accounting for bankers, asset liability management, regulatory topics, cyber security, and more.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About the Illinois Bankers Association

The Illinois Bankers Association is a full-service trade association dedicated to creating a positive business climate that benefits the entire banking industry and the communities they serve. Founded in 1891, the IBA brings together state and national banks and savings banks of all sizes in Illinois. Collectively, the Illinois banking industry employs more than 105,000 people in over 4,300 offices across the state.

Midwest-based commercial bank celebrates eighth consecutive year of record profitability despite soft economic environment

ROSEMONT, IL [March 6, 2025] – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced noteworthy achievements for 2024, including record profitability, prestigious industry awards, and client growth in Illinois and Wisconsin across specialized industries including manufacturing, professional services, legal, aviation, medical and other sectors.

“Our team has a great deal to be proud of as we reflect on our financial success in 2024, and one of the most important factors in our continued momentum is the strong relationships we have with our clients,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “We remain committed to elevating the experience for all of our customers, which is why in 2024 we invested in growing our wealth management division, we prioritized serving diverse industries, and we enhanced our digital platforms to deliver the best mobile and online banking experience.”

Key Signature Bank accomplishments in 2024 include:

Company Growth: Fiscal Year 2024 was another milestone year for Signature Bank, marking the company’s eighth consecutive year of record profitability. Net income was $34.8 million, which is an 8.4% increase over 2023. This increase was driven by a 21.4% increase in total assets and a strong 3.90% net interest margin.

Signature Bank’s ability to attract corporate deposits helped drive a 22.5% increase in total deposits. The bank’s Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) product, offering full FDIC coverage up to $200 million, played a key role in securing high-value relationships. Additionally, the bank saw a $140 million increase in money market accounts and $65 million increase in IOLTA (lawyer trust accounts).

Ongoing Commitment to Enhancing the Customer Experience: In 2024, Signature Bank also invested in the enhancement of clients’ digital experiences.

• The Treasury Management team transitioned the bank to a new Q2 digital banking platform. This new technology allows Signature Bank to work with various technology and finance products and partners to deploy their solutions to customers, enhancing customer engagement. The platform also provides solutions that help monitor, detect, and fight fraud.
• The bank launched a new website in Q4 with a fresh new look and streamlined navigation, reiterating the bank’s commitment to personalized service.

Industry Awards and Recognition: Over the past year Signature Bank has earned several prestigious banking and business honors.

• For the eighth consecutive year, the bank earned the distinction of being one of the Best Banks to Work For in the U.S. by American Banker. The bank achieved a ranking of 19 out of 90 banks featured on the list for creating a positive and supportive workplace.
• For the seventh year in a row, Signature Bank was named one of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). The list recognizes companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative business and human resource practices.
• Signature Bank was recognized on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for the fourth year, reflecting seven consecutive years of record profitability.
• Crain’s Chicago Business named Signature Bank the 15th largest bank in Chicago. The bank has the highest “Return on average equity” and second highest “Return on average assets” and “Commercial loans” percentages.

Notable Partnerships and Customer News: Signature Bank’s commitment to expertly serving clients across industry verticals was reflected in its work with several partners.

• Signature Bank’s expertise in the legal industry resulted in a well-known Chicago law firm selecting the bank for lending and deposit needs. The firm now refers clients to Signature Chicago Wealth Management for expert guidance in handling settlement proceeds.
• A third-generation, family-owned manufacturer in Milwaukee chose Signature Bank to finance its facility expansion and new equipment purchase after securing a major contract. The partnership resulted in a joint marketing campaign that will launch this spring and highlight the successful collaboration.
• Signature Bank helped a long-term client with the transition of ownership to employees. The bank leveraged its extensive experience helping clients with Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) financing, and Signature Chicago Wealth Management lent expertise to the selling shareholder in estate planning to ensure a smooth financial strategy for the selling shareholder.
• Two of Signature Bank Chicago’s long-time customers, Eagle Hair Care, Inc. and BMS Marketing, Inc. (DBA Sir Speedy Printing), were awarded $15,000 grants through Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago’s (FHLBank Chicago) Community First® Accelerate Grants for Small Business program.

Thought Leadership in Wealth Management: Signature Bank continues to demonstrate its dedication to expanding its wealth management division, evident through local thought leadership events and the hiring of a new senior wealth advisor.

• The bank hosted two informative economic update events, presented by John P. Culhane, CFA, Chief Investment Officer at Signature Chicago Wealth Management. Topics covered included post-election impact on wealth management, geopolitical risks and the 2025 economic outlook.
• Signature Chicago Wealth Management welcomed Steve Ricchio, Senior Wealth Advisor, who will focus on growing the bank’s investment advisory practice. With 40 years of experience in the financial services industry, his expertise includes providing comprehensive wealth management services and solutions to business owners, families of generational wealth, and retired executives.

Philanthropy and Community: Signature Bank employees annually give admirable time and resources to support numerous organizations in their local communities. Highlights of 2024 include:

• The team participated in the Paint Edgebrook Pink 5K Fun Run and Walk to help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
• Signature Bank continued its ongoing support of the Big Shoulders Fund with a Back-to-School Drive and sponsorship of their annual ball. These efforts provide essential supplies and educational opportunities to local underserved students.
• The bank participated in events with St. Patrick’s Father Missionary Society, Financial Executives International Chicago, and the Technology & Manufacturing Association (TMA), all supporting education, community development, and professional growth.

For additional information about Signature Bank and how it can help your Illinois or Wisconsin business grow, contact Pete Olsen at 773-467-5630.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Signature Bank is pleased to welcome Erin Reardon Cohn as Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking. With over two decades of experience, she will drive strategic growth, expand and strengthen client relationships through tailored financial solutions, and foster community initiatives. Cohn serves as Board Chair of Les Turner ALS Foundation and is currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies at Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, which she plans to complete in 2025. Read on Crain’s Chicago Business

Signature Bank Chicago has been named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ list of Largest Banks in Chicago. The bank ranks as the 15th largest bank in Chicago and has the highest “Return on average equity” and second highest “Return on average assets” and “Commercial loans” percentages. This achievement marks the bank’s seventh consecutive year of record growth and profitability. See the list.

ROSEMONT — Signature Bank announced it provided financing to J.A. Air Center to expand its operation at the Aurora Municipal Airport. The tailored financing will allow the 55-year-old company to leverge its location int he West suburbs to expand beyond its original footprint. [Read more]

Signature Bank would like its clients to know it is doing fine. And so would Signature Bank. [Read more]