Vice President
Commerce Bank
Chris Hwang, who has been in the business of banking since 1989, has been named Vice President and Team Leader of Commercial Lending for Commerce Bank, “America’s Most Convenient Bank.”
Hwang joins Commerce Bank after spending almost nine years as the Senior Vice President and Director of Small Business Lending for Flushing Savings Bank. He was successful at developing the Asian market for Flushing Savings Bank and Commerce believes Hwang can do the same for their company.
In his new position, Hwang will implement a strategic marketing plan focusing on attracting Asian Americans to work with Commerce and make it their preferred bank.
“I’m very excited about this,” said Hwang. “This is one of the best organizations in the banking industry - where I can reach my full potential.”
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Hwang came to New York City in 1984 in pursuit of higher education. While trying to adapt to a new world, he took his first steps towards his career in banking as an undergraduate student at C.W. Post. Hwang graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance.
Not satisfied with his thirst for knowledge, he went back to his alma mater as a graduate student to obtain a Masters in Accounting.
Long Island Savings Bank (now Astoria Federal) gave Hwang his first job in the world of banking. He spent a year there as Assistant Manager for the Mortgage Department before he moved on to become the Vice President of Commercial Lending at Korea First Bank.
“I spent about eight years at Korea First Bank,” Hwang said. “I learned a lot there, but I moved to Flushing Savings Bank because I had the opportunity to learn more.”
Banking may be Hwang’s career, but it certainly is not his life. He is also very involved in the community.
Hwang is a member of the board of trustees for Flushing Hospital Medical Center, serves on the board of directors for Queens Theatre in the Park, board of governors for Unisphere, Inc., board of directors for Korean Youth Foundation, and board of directors for Korea American Chamber of Commerce of Greater New York.
“My intention is to contribute to the community,” Hwang said. “Even though I’m an immigrant - this is still my country and I really enjoy giving back to the community.”
Hwang currently resides in Dix Hills with his wife and three children.
