FLINT, Mich., April 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- President and chief executive officer Cathleen H. Nash announced today that Ken Ross will join the company as Assistant General Counsel and Director of Government Relations effective May 2, 2011. Ross was recently the commissioner of the Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) under Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, having been appointed by former Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm in February 2008.

"We are delighted that Ken is joining our team," said Nash. "Ken brings a rich background in government, legal and regulatory affairs. He is a proven leader and his experience not only with legislative programs, but also his knowledge of banking regulations, will serve Citizens well."

As commissioner of OFIR, Ross was responsible for the regulation of the Michigan financial services industries, including insurance, banking and securities. Previously for OFIR, Ross served as the commissioner's chief of staff and as deputy commissioner for policy. Before joining OFIR, Ross was the vice president of regulatory and legal affairs for the Michigan Credit Union League. Ross' public service career is extensive, beginning in 1991 when he served as chief of staff for Michigan State Representative Agnes M. Dobronski. Later, he served as an assistant attorney general under Michigan Attorneys General Frank Kelley and Jennifer Granholm.

Ross earned a J.D., cum laude, from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Corporate Profile

Citizens Republic Bancorp (Nasdaq: CRBC) is a diversified financial services company providing a wide range of commercial, consumer, mortgage banking, trust and financial planning services to a broad client base. Citizens serves communities in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and Indiana with 220 offices and 249 ATMs. Citizens is the largest bank holding company headquartered in Michigan with roots dating back to 1871 and is the 55th largest bank holding company headquartered in the United States. More information about Citizens is available at www.citizensbanking.com.

SOURCE Citizens Republic Bancorp, Inc.