AgFirst names new chief administrative and marketing officers

COLUMBIA, SC – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank today announced two executive promotions. Jamie Bumgarner was named chief administrative officer, and Juan Silvera was appointed to the newly created position of chief marketing officer.

The creation of a CMO position represents a significant shift in the Columbia-based bank’s executive leadership structure and helps position AgFirst for continued success in an evolving, highly competitive market. As part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, AgFirst is committed to its mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services.

“Jamie and Juan are invaluable members of our leadership team. Both bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to these critical roles,” said AgFirst President and CEO Tim Amerson.

Bumgarner has been with AgFirst for more than 17 years, most recently serving as chief stakeholder relationship officer. In his new role, he is responsible for a variety of critical functions, including relationship management, project management, customer support, operational risk and compliance. He will continue to serve on the bank’s Executive Committee.

Silvera joined AgFirst in 2020 as executive director of marketing and product management. He has previous industry experience at a number of high-profile financial institutions, including Rabobank N.A., where he also served as CMO. Silvera will join the bank’s Executive Committee.

Rounding out the bank’s executive team are Chief Credit Officer Will Brown, Chief Information Officer Steve Ciambrone, Chief Financial Officer Steve Gilbert, Chief Information Security Officer Chad Toney, General Counsel Frances Griggs and Chief Audit Executive Dan LaFreniere.

“We are fortunate to have such a talented pool of leadership to help promote growth at the bank so we can continue to fulfill our vital mission through strategic vision,” Amerson said.