Signature Bank

When Signature Bank opened its doors in 2006, Mick O’Rourke, Kevin Bastuga and Bryan Duncan set out to create something they believed was missing in the market: a commercial bank rooted in relationships, not transactions.

With deep commercial banking experience and an entrepreneurial mindset, the three founders wrote a business plan, raised capital and left established institutions to build a bank that knew its clients, understood their businesses and stayed focused on long-term relationships.

That belief shaped Signature Bank from the beginning and still guides us today: know who you are, know who you serve and keep strengthening the relationships.

Read more about the founding story and the conviction behind Signature Bank’s first 20 years: https://www.signaturebank.bank/news-and-insights/founder-reflections-a-20-year-journey-in-relationship-banking/

From our first office in Chicago to our expanded presence across the Chicago and Wisconsin markets, Signature Bank’s story has been shaped by the people, partnerships and values that have guided us from the beginning.

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, we’re sharing stories and reflections that highlight the people, partnerships and values behind our growth, including founder reflections, employee stories, client relationships, community partnerships and market insights.

Explore our 20th anniversary page to learn more: https://www.signaturebank.bank/20th-anniversary/

Friendly reminder that all Signature Bank branches will be closed on Monday, May 25th, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day.

See here for more information: https://www.signaturebank.bank/holiday-closures/

We are proud to share the well-deserved promotions of several talented team members. Their hard work, expertise and commitment play an important role in Signature Bank’s continued growth and success.

Please join us in congratulating:

- Edith Armenta – Commercial Card Specialist
- Kamil Gwiazdowski – Vice President, Commercial Card Product Manager
- Marisel Hernandez – First Vice President, Business Systems
- Arely Hernandez-Rivera – Assistant Vice President of Loan Operations
- Elizabeth McEnroe – Assistant Vice President
- Ellie Morrissey – Assistant Vice President
- Brian Niems – Senior Technical Support Officer
- Afshan Noor – Assistant Vice President of IT/Cybersecurity
- Alma Sandoval – Relationship Banker
- Wynne Terlizzi – Vice President, Treasury Management Client Service & Support Manager

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from Signature Bank. We were honored to be part of the Northwest Side Irish Parade and to see our President Mick O'Rourke serve as Grand Marshal as we celebrated a great Chicago tradition. Sláinte!

Today we announced that Signature Bancorporation has entered into an agreement to join forces with Esquire Bank, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in Jericho, New York.

Signature Bank has spent nearly 20 years building a commercial banking franchise centered on strong relationships, responsive service, and tailored financial solutions for our clients. That commitment will remain at the heart of everything we do.

Our partnership with Esquire Bank brings together two organizations that share a relationship-driven approach to banking. Together, we will continue serving our clients with the same teams, the same commitment to service, and the same focus on helping businesses grow.

If you have questions about this announcement, please reach out to your Signature Bank relationship manager or connect with our founders, Mick O’Rourke, Bryan Duncan or Kevin Bastuga.

Read the full announcement here: https://www.signaturebank.bank/news-and-insights/esquire-financial-holdings-inc-to-acquire-signature-bancorporation-inc-expanding-into-the-chicago-banking-market/

At Signature Bank, relationships are at the center of everything we do, and that starts with our team. We’re grateful for the dedication, teamwork and care our employees bring to work every day for our clients and for each other.

Employee Appreciation Day gave us a chance to celebrate together with a team brunch. Thank you to Sunrise Grill & Catering in Des Plaines for the delicious spread!

Signature Bank is proud to announce that Connor Donohoe and Ellie Morrissey have been selected for the Future Leaders Alliance program through the Illinois Bankers Association, a 14-month program developing the next generation of banking professionals.

We also congratulate Joe Bicek and Matt Loffredo, who are graduating from the program after growing as leaders through community outreach, financial education and bringing fresh ideas back to the Bank.

Read the full announcement: https://www.signaturebank.bank/news-and-insights/signature-bank-recognizes-employees-selected-for-future-leaders-alliance-program/

Friendly reminder that all Signature Bank branches will be closed on Monday, February 16th, 2026 in observance of Presidents Day.

See here for more information: https://www.signaturebank.bank/holiday-closures/