First Financial Bank Wins Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for Second Year Running

First Financial Bank Achieves Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for Second Year

First Financial Bank (Nasdaq: FFBC) earns the prestigious Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for the second consecutive year, underscoring its commitment to employee development and high engagement in the competitive banking industry. This significant recognition is awarded to only a select few organizations globally, reflecting First Financial's dedication to fostering a workplace environment that emphasizes personal and professional growth among its associates. Archie Brown, the bank's president and CEO, expresses pride in this accomplishment, noting that a positive work atmosphere leads to greater employee satisfaction and, ultimately, exceptional customer care.

A deeper analysis from Gallup highlights First Financial's effective strategies in building a high-performance culture where employees feel both valued and empowered. This culture boosts engagement levels and nurtures individual strengths, making First Financial a standout in a crowded sector. Notably, only four percent of Gallup's surveyed clients achieve this accolade, which positions the bank as a leader not only in employee engagement but also in capitalizing on the unique strengths of its workforce. The two categories of recognition—engagement and strengths development—demonstrate the bank's comprehensive approach to understanding and meeting the needs of its employees throughout their careers.

As of December 31, 2025, First Financial Bancorp's financial stability showcases its robust standing in the banking industry. With assets totaling $21.1 billion, $13.4 billion in loans, and $16.4 billion in deposits, the bank operates 134 full-service banking centers across Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois, providing a suite of services that includes wealth management of approximately $3.9 billion in assets. This strong financial foundation complements its commitment to creating an empowering workplace culture, positioning First Financial as a forward-thinking leader in community engagement and service excellence.

In addition to its awards for employee engagement, First Financial also shines in community services. The bank achieves an Outstanding rating from the Federal Reserve for its Community Reinvestment Act performance in 2025, emphasizing its dedication to supporting the communities it serves. Overall, First Financial Bank exemplifies a holistic approach to banking that prioritizes both its employees and the communities it impacts.