Commercial Lending Team Expansion

Five Star Bank (the “Bank” or “Five Star”), a subsidiary of Financial Institutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: FISI) and an affiliate of wealth management firm Courier Capital, announced the expansion of its Commercial Lending team in Buffalo with the additions of David W. McKinley, as Senior Vice President, Commercial Real Estate Banker, and John W. Bauda, as First Vice President, Commercial & Industrial Banker.

Together, Mr. McKinley and Mr. Bauda have more than 50 years of combined banking experience and will be responsible for driving commercial growth, originating and structuring credit solutions, expanding client relationships and supporting businesses across Western New York. 

“David and John are highly respected bankers who understand this market and have built strong reputations for helping businesses succeed,” said Jason B. Krempa, Buffalo Regional President at Five Star Bank. “They bring experience, local knowledge and a client-first approach that will strengthen our team and enhance our ability to serve businesses throughout the region.”

Mr. McKinley joins Five Star with nearly 30 years of experience in commercial banking, public accounting and healthcare finance. He will focus on commercial real estate lending, helping real estate investors and developers bring their visions to reality through customized financing solutions. Prior to joining Five Star, Mr. McKinley held commercial banking leadership and relationship management roles with Community Bank, HSBC, Bank of America and Fleet National Bank. He earned a BA in Management and Accounting from Hartwick College and holds a Certified Public Accountant designation from the State of New York. 

Mr. Bauda has more than 20 years of commercial and business banking experience. He will focus on commercial and industrial lending, delivering financial solutions to businesses throughout Western New York. Throughout his career, he has developed and managed commercial banking relationships, providing strategic financial guidance and tailored lending solutions to customers. Prior to joining Five Star, he held commercial banking positions with Tompkins Community Bank, Citizens Bank, and HSBC. He earned a BS in Business Administration from Houghton University.

The additions of Mr. McKinley and Mr. Bauda reflect Five Star Bank’s continued investment in Buffalo and Western New York and commitment to expanding its commercial banking presence across its footprint. As part of six commercial lending hires made in 2026, their appointments support the Bank’s long-term growth strategy and reinforce its focus on local expertise, responsive decision-making and relationship-driven service for businesses and communities throughout the markets it serves.