Gregory Helmer Appointed as FVP, Commercial Banking

 

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 that Gregory Helmer has joined the Bank as First Vice President, Commercial Banking.

 

Mr. Helmer has nearly 30 years of combined experience in commercial and business banking and will be responsible for driving commercial growth across the Greater Rochester Metropolitan and Finger Lakes regions. In this role, he will focus on originating and structuring credit solutions, expanding commercial client relationships, and supporting the Bank’s strategic revenue initiatives.

“Greg’s extensive banking experience and deep understanding of commercial lending make him an excellent addition to our team,” said Five Star Bank Rochester Regional President Patrick Keating. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong ability to advise business clients, manage complex credit relationships, and deliver tailored financial solutions in competitive markets. We look forward to the leadership and expertise he will bring as we continue to grow our commercial banking presence across the region.”

Mr. Helmer joins Five Star from Canandaigua National Bank, where he most recently served as Vice President of Commercial Lending. Prior to that, he spent 22 years at M&T Bank in roles of increasing responsibility after starting his career at Citibank. Mr. Helmer earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Sociology from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York.

Mr. Helmer, who will be based at Five Star Bank Plaza in downtown Rochester, is active in his community. He is the co-founder and director of the Victor Challenger Sports program and serves as board treasurer for the Victor Baseball Booster Club.