NexTier Bank to Acquire Riverside, Creating $3.1B Regional Banking Force

BUTLER, PA – May 08, 2026 – In a significant move set to reshape the regional banking landscape, Pennsylvania-based NexTier, Inc. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Riverside Bank of Dublin, Ohio. The merger will create a tri-state community banking powerhouse with combined assets exceeding $3.1 billion, significantly expanding NexTier's footprint into the economically vibrant Columbus market.

A Strategic Leap into a Competitive Market

The acquisition marks a major strategic expansion for NexTier Bank, which currently operates 32 branches across Western Pennsylvania and New York. By acquiring Riverside, NexTier gains a crucial foothold in Central Ohio, a region known for its dynamic growth and competitive banking environment dominated by national giants like JPMorgan Chase and Huntington National Bank.

Riverside Bank of Dublin, though only five years old, has proven to be a formidable player. The bank has seen its assets triple since its founding in 2021, reaching approximately $270 million as of March 31, 2026. Its rapid growth earned it the #8 spot on Columbus Business First's 2025 Fast 50 list, highlighting its success in capturing market share through a focus on commercial real estate, small business lending, and personalized service.

This "cross-state expansion play" allows NexTier to diversify its geographic presence and tap into a new, fragmented community banking market. The move leverages NexTier's existing loan production office in Cleveland and builds upon a long-standing relationship between the two institutions.

"NexTier has been invested in and partnered with Riverside since its inception," said Clem Rosenberger, President & CEO of NexTier Bank, in a statement. "We have been proud to be associated with this outstanding organization throughout the years, and we are enthusiastic about what the future holds as we bring these two great community banks together."

Combining Scale with Local Expertise

The merger is being framed as a combination of complementary strengths. NexTier brings its substantial $2.9 billion asset base, a sophisticated suite of treasury management products, and deep expertise in commercial business lending. Riverside contributes its strong local relationships, a reputation for stellar customer service, and specialized lending capabilities that have fueled its growth in the Columbus area.

Upon completion, all branches will operate under the NexTier Bank brand. The deal includes Riverside's current Dublin location and its planned new branch in the Bridge Park development, set to open in June 2026, further solidifying the combined entity's presence.

"This is a positive step for Riverside Bank of Dublin. It allows us to continue to grow and provide stellar service to our clients," stated Charles O'rin Moore, Riverside's CEO. He emphasized that the combination would create a bank "focused on the 'right things' in one of the largest and fastest growing markets in the Midwest."

For customers, the merger promises access to a wider array of products and services. "NexTier Bank has been lending within the Columbus marketplace for over a decade," noted Travis Sanders, Riverside's President. "The addition of Riverside's new branch location expands our combined ability to service customers from both organizations with two full-service retail locations, premier treasury management services, and unparalleled personalized care."

Integrating Cultures and Ensuring a Smooth Transition

A key component of the merger's success will hinge on the integration of people and culture. In a move designed to ensure continuity and retain local market knowledge, Travis Sanders will join the NexTier Bank leadership team as Regional President for the Columbus, Ohio market. This appointment signals a commitment to preserving the customer-centric legacy that defined Riverside.

"We are committed to continuing Riverside's legacy of connecting with customers and delivering strong customer-focused service," Rosenberger affirmed.

For customers of Riverside, the transition will be a critical period. While details are forthcoming, NexTier's handling of its previous merger with Mars Bancorp in February 2024 may offer a blueprint. In that instance, NexTier provided customers with a detailed "Welcome Guide" that outlined changes to debit cards, online banking access, and other services to facilitate a seamless experience. A similar proactive communication strategy will be essential to reassure Riverside clients and manage the integration of their accounts.

The integration also presents challenges and opportunities for employees of both banks. Merging two distinct organizational cultures requires careful management to maintain morale and retain key talent. The emphasis on retaining Riverside's leadership is a positive indicator of NexTier's approach to blending the two institutions.

The Path to Closing

The merger agreement has already received unanimous approval from the boards of directors of both NexTier and Riverside. However, the transaction is not yet final. It remains subject to customary closing conditions, including approvals from regulatory bodies like the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Reserve Board.

Crucially, the deal also requires the approval of Riverside Bank of Dublin's shareholders. A proxy statement will be prepared and mailed to shareholders, who will then vote on the proposed transaction.

The entire process is expected to conclude in the third quarter of 2026. A team of seasoned financial and legal advisors is navigating the complexities of the deal. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods (a Stifel Company) and Alston & Bird LLP are advising NexTier, while Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC, and Dinsmore & Shohl LLP are advising Riverside, lending their extensive experience in regional bank M&A to guide the process to completion.