First Citizens Bancshares (NC) Names Lee Erby as Northern California Market Leader for Wealth Division

First Citizens Wealth Appoints Lee Erby as Northern California Market Leader

First Citizens Wealth, a division of First Citizens Bancshares, strengthens its leadership in Northern California with the appointment of Lee Erby as the new Market Leader, based in San Francisco. This strategic move, announced on November 12, 2025, aims to bolster the firm's services tailored to high-net-worth individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits across the region. Erby, with over 20 years of extensive experience in wealth management, brings a wealth of knowledge from his previous roles at prominent financial institutions, including Bank of America Private Bank, Merrill Lynch, and Citi Private Bank. His local expertise and commitment to understanding the nuances of the Northern California market position him as a valuable asset for First Citizens Wealth.

In his new role, Erby will lead a team of wealth consultants, focusing on delivering a comprehensive suite of services that encompasses wealth planning, investment services, and fiduciary management. Art Saldivar, Senior Director of Regional Wealth for California, expresses confidence in Erby’s leadership, pointing out his deep local roots and ability to cater to the unique financial needs of clients in the innovative economy of Northern California. First Citizens Wealth, which operates six branches in the Bay Area and employs over 1,000 staff members, aims to leverage Erby’s expertise to enhance its growth trajectory and ensure long-term client success.

This appointment comes at a pivotal time as First Citizens Wealth seeks to adapt to the evolving financial landscape and the growing demands of affluent clientele. The firm's commitment to providing personalized wealth management solutions aligns with its goal of fostering enduring relationships with clients. As the banking sector continues to evolve, First Citizens Wealth is poised to remain a significant player in the market, driven by strategic leadership and a strong client-centric approach.

In addition to Erby's appointment, First Citizens Bank also plays a critical role in supporting clean energy initiatives. The bank recently participated in a preferred equity commitment for Peregrine Energy Solutions, which is advancing its battery energy storage projects across various U.S. energy markets. This involvement underlines First Citizens Bank's dedication to financing innovative energy solutions while expanding its influence in diverse sectors beyond traditional banking.

The dual focus on wealth management and clean energy financing positions First Citizens Bancshares as a versatile player in the financial services industry, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and client success across multiple domains.