Citizens Bank has appointment Chris Nard president of mortgage banking.

Nard will be responsible for managing mortgage operations, sales and technology teams.

Nard succeeds Cheryl Nolda, who is leaving the company at the end of the year after five years with Citizens.

Nard, who has 30 years of experience with mortgages, previously served as president and COO for Old Republic International Corp. (ORI).

“Our mortgage offering is a strategic priority for Citizens and we are pleased to welcome an industry veteran like Chris to help us continue to grow this important part of our business,” Conner said in a statement. “Chris’s extensive background and prior experience leading large organizations makes him a great fit for Citizens and our executive leadership team. We thank Cheryl for her leadership in growing the mortgage business over the past five years and wish her well.”