Flagstar Bank, a subsidiary of Flagstar Financial, appointed two senior leaders to its technology and risk teams, effective immediately. These additions will enhance oversight of technology and credit processes.
“We are excited to welcome these accomplished leaders to Flagstar Bank. Respectively, their commitment to innovation and excellence in credit oversight and technology will play a crucial role in enhancing our offerings and how we operate,” Joseph Otting, chairman, president and CEO of Flagstar Bank, said. “Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and continue to cultivate a collaborative environment that accelerates our progress toward achieving our ambitious goals, particularly in how we use technology to augment and enhance the client experience.”
Christopher Higgins, senior executive vice president, chief information officer of Flagstar Bank, brings nearly 40 years of executive leadership experience in banking to Flagstar. His expertise includes transformations, acquisitions and developing technology and data solutions that enhance both customer and employee experiences. Most recently, Higgins served at U.S. Bank where he led 13 post-merger systems conversions, integrating 1.2 million customers and 57 systems. Previously at MUFG Americas, he served as chief operations and information officer, enhancing operations, technology and risk management. Christopher also held key roles at Bank of America and Shawmut National Bank. A U.S. Army veteran, he was commissioned as a Quartermaster Officer, earned Airborne qualification and received two Army Commendation Medals and one Meritorious Service Medal. Additionally, he holds Six Sigma Lean and Black Belt certifications. He will report to Otting.
Rich Martin, head of credit review, brings nearly 30 years of executive leadership and credit review experience to Flagstar, with a strong foundation in credit risk management. His expertise includes leading large credit risk review teams with international mandates and reporting directly to board committees. He also has experience in Big Four consulting for global banks and has worked in commercial lending across corporate, middle market, and small business sectors. Most recently, Martin served as executive director of credit review at First Citizens Bank, where he led a team of over 50, overseeing $220 billion in commercial, specialty, private client and consumer credit exposure. He also played a key role in integrating the credit review departments of Silicon Valley Bank and First Citizens into a unified function. Martin’s extensive background includes leadership roles such as managing director at MUFG Union Bank, executive director at EY and vice president at Bank of America. He will report to chief risk officer, George Buchanan and the risk assessment committee of Flagstar Financial’s board.
