Redefining Success Through Commitment to Community, Culture, and Sustainability

BayFirst Financial believes in banking with purpose. Every loan we approve, every partnership we build, and every program we implement is designed to enhance the well-being of the individuals, families, and businesses we serve.

Leading With Purpose

“At BayFirst, our mission extends beyond financial services—it's about creating meaningful connections and fostering growth in the communities we serve. Our leadership is about more than managing finances—it's about leading with purpose. Our commitment to corporate social responsibility is reflected in every decision we make, from supporting nonprofits, creating financial literacy programs, to fostering economic inclusivity. Every action we take is grounded in our belief that success is measured by the well-being of those around us. By supporting initiatives that enhance financial well-being, we're not just serving our customers—we're building stronger, more vibrant communities together.”

Thomas G. Zernick
Chief Executive Officer, BayFirst

Our Mission

BayFirst Financial strives to be the first choice for individuals, families, and small businesses to enhance their financial well-being and foster growth. By seamlessly integrating technology with an amazing human touch, we are redefining the banking experience for the communities we serve.

At BayFirst We CARE

Curiosity

fuels us.

Adaptability

shapes us.

Resilience

strengthens us.

Excellence

defines us.

Our culture is more than a collection of internal values-it’s a reflection of our commitment to serve. Everything we do begins with CARE: Curiosity fuels the solutions we offer, Adaptability shapes how we respond to change, Resilience keeps us steady through challenges, and Excellence drives us to always deliver our best. These values aren’t just for us-they guide how we show up for our customers, how we support one another, and how we serve our community. They help us build trust, stay accountable, and lead with intention.

OUR CORE OPERATING PRINCIPLES

Our Core Operating Principles take these values and put them into motion. These principles empower every team member to contribute meaningfully, knowing their voice matters and their actions have impact.

Act Like **Adults** and do the **Right** Thing

Say what you mean **without** saying it mean

Act with **speed**, simplicity, & decisiveness

**Manage** risk without creating bureaucracy

Respect **Everyone**. Inclusivity is fundamental, not a goal

**Collaboration**, not rank
or hierarchy

Together, our values and principles create more than a healthy workplace-they form a culture of service and leadership that extends far beyond our walls. We believe that how we operate internally directly shapes the kind of company we are in the world. That’s why we aim to be more than a financial institution-we aim to be a force for good. Whether we’re supporting small businesses, volunteering in local neighborhoods, or helping families build brighter financial futures, BayFirst leads by example-driven by purpose, powered by people, and deeply rooted in community.

CHAMPIONING COMMUNITY

As a community bank, our commitment to improving lives runs deep and includes focusing on the greater impact we have on the communities we serve.

Impact, our community engagement program, encourages and increases volunteerism throughout BayFirst Bank. Through Impact, we maintain a company-wide focus on local nonprofits in the four key areas of Community & Human Services, Education & Financial Literacy, Arts & Culture, and Animal Services & Programs.

Whether we’re supporting small businesses, volunteering in local neighborhoods, or helping families build brighter financial futures, BayFirst leads by example—driven by purpose, powered by people, and deeply rooted in community.

Organizations & Causes We're Proud to Support

Rooted in Community, Connected by Cause.

MORE THAN JUST A NUMBER

Building lasting partnerships and creating a unique culture.

MINORITY LENDING INITIATIVE

Over 3,856 loans totaling over $899 million have been funded to support the growth and needs of minority owned businesses since 2021.

SUPPORTING FINANCIAL LITERACY

Over 30 financial literacy programs tailored to students, small business owners, and underserved communities were completed in 2024.

VOLUNTEERING: 1 EMPLOYEE AT A TIME

Every employee is provided with 16 hours of paid Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to support local needs or organizations.

COMPETITIVE PAY

We've established a company-wide minimum wage of $20/hour to ensure growth while best serving the needs of our diverse team and the customers we serve.

PROMOTING OPEN COMMUNICATION

We prioritize employee feedback through surveys, forums, and a CEO Council- a diverse group of employee representatives, selected quarterly to ensure every voice is heard.

Join Us!

At BayFirst, culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of everything we do. We're building something meaningful here: a place where people come first, ideas are heard, and community is more than just geography—it’s a mindset.

If you’re driven by purpose, inspired by progress, and passionate about making a difference in your community and beyond, your next opportunity could be just a click away.

Explore Careers