First Bancorp Appoints Bridget Welborn as Chief Risk Officer to Strengthen Leadership Team

First Bank Strengthens Leadership with Strategic Appointment of Chief Risk Officer

First Bank, headquartered in Greensboro, N.C., announces the appointment of Bridget Welborn as its new Chief Risk Officer and Head of Legal, effective October 2025. Welborn brings over 15 years of extensive experience in legal, risk, privacy, and regulatory compliance, which positions her as a significant asset to the bank. Before joining First Bank, she served as Senior Counsel at Wyrick Robbins, where she specialized in advising financial institutions, fintech companies, and insurers on critical issues surrounding privacy and data security. Her previous roles also include serving as Chief Privacy & Risk Officer at the State Employees' Credit Union—one of the largest credit unions in the U.S.—and holding senior positions at First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company.

Adam Currie, CEO of First Bank, expresses enthusiasm about Welborn's addition to the executive team, highlighting her strategic vision and expertise in risk management as vital elements for the bank's future growth and innovation. Currie points out that as the banking industry increasingly faces complex regulatory challenges and emerging risks, Welborn's comprehensive background will help navigate these issues effectively. Her expertise aligns with First Bank’s mission to enhance operational resilience while maintaining a robust compliance framework.

Welborn shares her excitement about joining First Bank, emphasizing the institution's strong community focus and commitment to excellence. She notes that the bank's culture resonates with her personal values regarding safety and soundness, which will guide her initiatives in risk management and legal oversight. As she transitions into her new role, Welborn will collaborate closely with Peter Seitz, the current Executive Vice President of Enterprise Risk, who is set to retire at the end of January 2026. Seitz commends Welborn’s capability to manage the complexities involved in the risk environment of a growing financial institution, affirming that her leadership will be instrumental as First Bank continues to expand its footprint.

In addition to her extensive professional experience, Welborn holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Richmond and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health for Biostatistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is licensed to practice law in North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia, further underscoring her qualifications for the role.

As First Bank prepares for a future marked by regulatory scrutiny and technological advancement, Welborn's appointment signals a strategic move towards reinforcing the bank’s risk management capabilities and enhancing its commitment to legal compliance within the evolving financial landscape.