Matt DeFinis, senior marketing specialist at Oxford Bank, is being recognized with a Rising Star Award from The Community Bankers of Michigan (CBM).
The CBM Rising Star Award, created in 2019, is awarded annually to individuals that represent the best in community banking in Michigan, have made significant contributions to their bank and community, earned the respect of peers, and continue to grow. Recipients will be honored at the CBM Annual Convention and Expo on Sept. 11.
As the senior marketing specialist at, DeFinis plays an important role in promoting and advancing the bank, outreaching to and understanding the needs of customers, and helping to ensure that the bank is being an excellent corporate citizen.
With Oxford Bank drawing on a long-storied history as the oldest commercial bank headquartered in Oxford, he plays a crucial role in preserving the bank’s history and promoting its future. He also ensures connection with the communities that surround Oxford Bank’s 14 locations throughout Michigan, including organizing community events, open houses, efforts for the bank to give back, and fostering relationships with local organizations.
He also oversees marketing for Oxford Bank subsidiary, Oxford Commercial Finance (offering working capital solutions to businesses nationwide), and Oxford Bank’s financial planning arm, Oxford Wealth Management.
A special project dear to DeFinis’ heart is Oxford Bank’s Financial Literacy program – Money Masters – that he co-created. The program includes online educational resources and events through all of life’s stages, including providing tours and education to area students from Dryden and other school districts.
“During his 3½ year tenure with the bank, Matt has shown exceptional commitment and talent, earning two well deserved promotions,” says Nancy Rosentrater, COO of Oxford Bank. “He has been part of helping to transform the bank, from not only one of the oldest in Michigan, but to also be one of the most valuable. We thank CBM for recognizing him with this important award.”
