The American Bankers Association today announced that Christopher Maher has been named chair of ABA’s American Bankers Council for the 2026–2027 membership year. Maher is CEO of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and OceanFirst Bank, a New Jersey-based institution serving consumers, businesses and communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
The American Bankers Council (ABC) consists of midsize bank chief executives from across the country who meet regularly to discuss key regulatory and legislative issues, industry trends and competitive priorities affecting midsize banks. The council provides guidance to ABA on issues important to the midsize banking community while giving members a forum to exchange insights, share best practices and learn from their peers. As ABC chair, Maher will lead the council’s efforts, help shape its priorities and represent the collective perspective of midsize bank leaders.
“Chris Maher is a respected leader with a strong track record of guiding a growing regional institution while remaining deeply committed to community engagement and industry leadership,” said ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols. “His experience, insight and dedication make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the American Bankers Council, and we look forward to working with him on the issues that matter most to midsize banks and the customers they serve.”
“It is an honor to serve as chair of the American Bankers Council,” said Maher. “Midsize banks play a vital role in supporting economic growth, helping businesses thrive and meeting the financial needs of families and communities across the country. I look forward to working with my fellow Council members and ABA to advance policies that foster innovation, strengthen our industry and ensure banks can continue serving their customers effectively.”
Maher has served as CEO of OceanFirst Financial Corp. and OceanFirst Bank since 2015. He joined OceanFirst in 2013 as president and chief operating officer and was appointed to the board of directors in 2014. He also served as president of the bank from 2015 to 2021.
A recognized leader in both the banking industry and nonprofit community, Maher serves as chairman of the Board of OceanFirst Foundation and is a trustee of Helen Keller Services for the Blind. He is also a trustee of Hackensack Meridian Health, chair and trustee of Hackensack Meridian Ambulatory Care and a trustee and immediate past chair of Monmouth University. Within the banking industry, Maher serves as a director and founding member of the National Bank InterDeposit Company, was formerly a director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and formerly past chair and director of the New Jersey Bankers Association.
