First Foundation Inc. announced the launch of its commercial banking solution. The new offering was created to deliver greater value to clients by providing commercial banking services to both existing and new clients. The newly formed group will lead efforts to grow the bank's commercial and industrial loan portfolio as well as commercial deposit portfolio.

The launch coincides with the appointment of Michael Berry, who will lead the solution build out and serve as Senior Vice President. An 18-year veteran of the banking industry, Mr. Berry previously served as a Vice President of First Community Bank and Vice President of Argent Bank, formerly Sonoma Bank. Mr. Berry has focused his expertise on commercial lending for a majority of his career, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Mr. Berry will be joined by Dean Smith, who will serve as Vice President and has 10 years of industry experience, and Nicole Hernandez, who will assist clients in private banking with her 19 years of industry knowledge. Mr. Smith joins First Foundation after serving as Vice President of the Commercial Lending Department of First Community Bank.