Muncie-based First Merchants Bank was named to American Banker’s 2024 list of Best Banks to Work For.

The honor places First Merchants among only 90 banks nationwide to receive the distinction.

According to the American Banker, “Banks that made the list tend to prioritize leaders, a strong corporate culture, job training and advancement and a feeling of belonging within the organization.”

Earning a spot on the list is based on a review of employee benefits, satisfaction and overall work environment.

“By prioritizing our employees and attentively listening to their needs, we are better equipped to serve our customers and communities collectively,” said Mark Hardwick, First Merchants CEO, in a press release. “I am grateful to our driven and hard-working employees for their commitment to collaboration and creating a culture of belonging.”

First Merchants Bank has been named to American Banker’s list of Best Banks to Work For since 2022.

First Merchants Bank started as Merchants National Bank of Muncie. It was founded by local former schoolteacher and wholesale grocer, Hardin Roads, and a group of businesspeople in 1893. The original bank was in a room at the northeast corner of Main and Mulberry Streets in Muncie. Today, First Merchants Banks operates more than 115 banking centers in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio.