Stephen Lee

South Texas Area Banking Executive

Experience

Mr. Lee began his career in banking with North Park National Bank in Dallas before relocating back to Southeast Texas in 1993 spending the next 10 years serving in leadership roles with three different regional banks. In 2004, he transitioned briefly out of banking with Pulte Homes in Orlando, Florida as VP of Field Operations before returning to Southeast Texas to take over as CEO and President of Orange Savings Bank in 2008.  Under his leadership, the bank expanded into Jefferson County before merging with First Financial Bank in 2013. He continues to serve as Chairman, CEO & President of First Financial Bank, NA – Southeast Texas Region.  


Education

Mr. Lee earned his BBA from Lamar University in 1989 where he earned four letters playing football including 33 consecutive starts at center where he was ultimately recognized by the associated press as a 1-AA All American. 

In 1999 he earned his graduate degree from the Southwest Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University where he was recognized as the Bracewell and Patterson Outstanding Graduate Award.

Activities

Mr. Lee is actively involved in the community serving as a Director of the Lamar State College-Orange Foundation, Chairman of the Lutcher Theater, Inc. Board, Director of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation and Director of the 100 Club of Southeast Texas. In 2021, Stephen was appointed to the Texas State University System Board of Regents by Governor Greg Abbott.

Honors

In 2018, Stephen was recognized by First Financial Bank as the 8th recipient of the Walter F. Johnson Award for his leadership in recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey on Southeast Texas.