On May 9, Dallas-based First Foundation Inc., a financial services company with two subsidiaries, First Foundation Advisors and Irvine, California-based First Foundation Bank, announced that it has opened a new branch in Plano. Along with First Foundation Inc.’s principal executive office in Dallas, the new branch—located at 1601 Preston Rd., Ste. K, in Plano—expands the company’s presence in North Texas. The opening of this de novo location supports the bank’s growth strategy that it has been following over the past couple of years, which has included adding locations in Texas and Florida, as well as expanding in Southern California.

“First Foundation Bank is pleased to have a retail branch to serve clients in North Texas,” says Scott F. Kavanaugh, CEO. “When we moved the holding company’s principal executive offices to Dallas last year, our focus was on finding the right location and team to open our first full-service branch in the area. We think this location perfectly positions us, as we see an increase in demand for our banking services from individuals and businesses located in North Texas. It is also an added benefit to have the leadership and expertise of a talented branch team that maintains strong ties to the local community.”

The branch will be led by Tyler Younger, vice president and branch manager. With 17 years of experience in banking and a strong understanding of the local area, he was brought in to lead the Plano branch team.

“It is great to be up and running in our new Plano location,” says Rich Christensen, senior vice president and retail banking executive. “The entire team did such a fantastic job on this build-out and we are very proud to open our doors today. We know this community has a rich history of banking, and we are grateful for the warm reception we have already received. We are honored to be here and look forward to serving our new clients.”

Established in 2007, First Foundation Bank operates 30 banking offices in Texas, California, Florida, Nevada and Hawaii.