Brendon Falconer is a business executive best known for his role as a senior financial leader at Old National Bancorp, the parent company of Old National Bank, a prominent regional financial institution in the United States. Over more than a decade with the bank holding company, Falconer developed a substantial career in finance, working his way up through various departments and leadership positions. His tenure at Old National spanned roles in accounting, treasury, credit operations, and ultimately executive financial management, making him a key figure in the bank’s corporate leadership during a period of significant expansion and organizational change.
Early Career and Education
Brendon B. Falconer’s educational background laid the foundation for his career in finance and banking. He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Kent State University, followed by a master’s in business administration from Indiana State University. These academic qualifications equipped him with expertise in financial reporting and management, setting the stage for his professional journey in the banking sector.
Before joining Old National, Falconer gained experience in commercial banking at Irwin Union Bank, where he served as controller of the commercial banking division. In this role, he was responsible for financial oversight and management reporting, experiences that would prove valuable in his subsequent leadership roles at Old National.
Roles at Old National Bank and Bancorp
Progression Through Financial Leadership
Falconer joined Old National’s Evansville finance team in 2009 as bank controller. He steadily advanced through a series of leadership positions, including director of credit operations and director of management reporting. In 2016, he was named senior vice president and treasurer, where he oversaw liquidity, capital planning, investment portfolio management and treasury operations.
During his tenure in treasury, Falconer played a role in significant institutional activities, such as mergers and acquisitions and corporate financial planning. His leadership in these areas contributed to Old National’s growth and stability in competitive financial markets.
Chief Financial Officer
In May 2019, Falconer succeeded as chief financial officer (CFO) of Old National Bank and Old National Bancorp, a role that placed him at the center of financial strategy and operations. As CFO, he was responsible for financial reporting, accounting, tax, data analytics, procurement and finance team leadership. This position also involved oversight of treasury management, investor relations, and budgeting. Falconer’s role was integral to guiding the bank’s financial performance and operational planning during his tenure.
Impact on Old National and Corporate Growth
Under Falconer’s financial leadership, Old National Bancorp continued to expand its presence and services across multiple states. The bank provides traditional and digital financial products, including loans, deposit accounts, wealth management and commercial services through a broad network of branches in the Midwest. Old National Bancorp has a long history dating back to 1834, and during Falconer’s time in executive roles, it pursued a series of mergers and acquisitions that broadened its market reach.
Falconer’s strategic input on financial planning and analytical operations contributed to the bank’s ability to navigate changing economic conditions and regulatory environments, helping ensure continuity and growth. His background in treasury and management reporting was particularly valuable in aligning financial functions with corporate goals.
Compensation and Financial Interests
As CFO, Falconer received significant compensation reflecting his responsibilities and market position. His earnings included base salary, equity awards, and performance incentives. Falconer also held shares of Old National Bancorp stock as an insider, reflecting a financial interest in the company’s performance. These holdings and compensation figures underline the level of trust and accountability associated with his executive role.
Challenges and Transition
In 2024, Old National Bancorp disclosed that Falconer was placed on administrative leave. The company cited a personal matter unrelated to its operations, which was significant enough to prompt his temporary removal from CFO duties. An interim CFO was appointed while the situation was being addressed. This development marked a notable shift in Old National’s executive leadership during that year.
Later developments included Falconer and Old National agreeing to a mutual separation, with a formal separation agreement outlining the terms of his departure from the bank. Details included the termination of employment and severance arrangements. This transition reflected changes in the bank’s leadership structure moving forward.
Broader Contributions and Community Engagement
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Falconer engaged with community and educational institutions. He served on the board of trustees for Ivy Tech in Evansville, contributing his professional expertise to support educational leadership and community development. Participation in community boards is a common way senior executives extend their impact beyond the corporate environment, fostering partnerships between business and public interests.
Legacy and Professional Profile
Brendon Falconer’s career at Old National Bancorp illustrates the trajectory of a finance professional rising through technical and leadership ranks to reach the top levels of organizational management. His journey from accounting roles to CFO highlights the importance of expertise in financial operations, strategic planning, and corporate governance. While his tenure ended amid personal challenges, his contributions to financial management and support for institutional growth remain part of his professional record.
The story of Falconer at Old National also reflects broader themes in corporate leadership, including succession planning, executive accountability, and the interplay between personal and professional challenges that executives may face. Understanding his career offers insights into how financial leaders shape the strategic direction of major regional banks and balance technical responsibilities with broader organizational goals.