In March, we celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing and celebrating some of FirstBank’s women in leadership.

Today we’re featuring Christina Ciaffone, Arizona Senior Vice President.

Hometown: Chandler, Arizona

Years at FirstBank: 12 years

Other positions held with organizations/boards:  

• About Care Inc. – Board Chair

1. In three to four sentences, describe your experience in getting to where you are today. 

After college, I began my career with FirstBank as a Management Trainee. For the first few months, I completed training in Colorado, where I really got to know the company’s culture and what makes it such a unique organization. I then returned to Arizona, joining the East Valley market, where I reside today. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed establishing long-lasting relationships with customers, employees, and businesses within my community.

2. How has FirstBank’s companywide philosophy of “banking for good” impacted your life and your career? 

FirstBank’s “banking for good” philosophy fits seamlessly into my everyday life as it aligns with my values.  This philosophy means ‘doing what’s right,’ even when things get difficult. By using this philosophy as a guide, I’ve been able to walk away from every situation, personally and professionally, with integrity. I think this helps build trust and respect among everyone I meet.

3. What is the best career advice you have for the next generation of leaders? What would you tell someone just starting out?  

You were hired for a reason, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your voice and contributions matter, but make sure you remain tactful, and willing to listen and learn. Absorb as much as possible from other leaders because everyone has something to offer. Some things may not resonate or feel natural, so hold onto the stuff that works for you.

4. What is one thing you’re most proud of that you’ve accomplished while working at FirstBank?

I’m proud to have been part of the hundreds of officers and employees who worked around the clock to originate Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for our customers and communities during the pandemic. The way everyone came together during that time to get vital funding to business owners was inspiring and made me very proud to be part of the FirstBank team.

5. If you had your own talk show, who would be your first guest?

Taylor Swift. I wouldn’t consider myself a Swiftie, but I have a ton of respect for her and would love to hear about her experiences. The level of success she has attained is unmatched. Her fans span different generations, and she still has many more music-making years ahead. She’s one of the world’s best-selling artists and held the highest-grossing concert tour in history. She’s also very giving through her philanthropic efforts and an advocate for women’s empowerment.

6. Considering March is Women’s History Month, which historical figure/s would you most like to meet and why?

I’d love to meet Ruth Bader Ginsburg and hear firsthand about her life’s trials and triumphs. She was someone who consistently stood up for gender equality and civil rights, and I would not be able to live the life I do today without the many historic rulings she helped pass.

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Published: March 18, 2025