CHICAGO – November 14, 2013 – Mark Buechler, age 33, has joined Associated Bank as portfolio manager where he is responsible for managing a $250 million commercial middle market loan portfolio, focusing on commercial and industrial industries in the Chicago, Central Illinois and St. Louis footprint. He is focused on underwriting, credit monitoring and portfolio management of new and existing client relationships and expanding client relationships.

With 10 years in the banking industry, Buechler was formerly portfolio manager with U.S. Bank. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago having earned a bachelor’s degree in finance. In the community Buechler serves as an auxiliary board member and executive committee member for the Lincoln Park Zoo. His office is located at 525 W Monroe St.

Ernesto Guillen, age 32 has been hired as senior branch manager for the Associated Bank branch located at 180 Virginia St., Crystal Lake, IL. In this role he is responsible for managing the overall operations of the branch while directing activities to help maintain and develop business and consumer relationships. Guillen leads the retail team in reaching their financial goals.

Prior to joining Associated Bank, Guillen was branch manager with Fifth Third Bank. He earned his undergraduate degree from Illinois State University.