Axos Bank, the nationwide bank subsidiary of Axos Financial Inc., announced the launch of its Middle Market Banking Division. Led by industry veteran Kristian (Kris) Ilkov, Axos will look to capitalize on disruptions in certain industry verticals. The Middle Market Banking team will provide hands-on relationship management for clients, including tailored banking solutions for middle market clients.

Serving companies with revenues between $25 million to $3 billion in healthcare, gaming, aerospace and defense, Axos Bank’s Middle Market Banking division will provide industry-leading treasury management services, comprehensive banking services and tailored financing solutions to middle market companies.

Ilkov joins Axos as Executive Vice President, Head of Middle Market/Mid Corp Banking from Umpqua Bank, where he was responsible for serving clients in the Southwest region. Prior to Umpqua Bank, Ilkov spent 15 years at Bank of the West/BNP Paribas, the world’s 3rd largest financial institution, serving in various roles, including Managing Director and Senior Vice President.

“We continue to expand our commercial lending capabilities and talent base through opportunistic additions to our team,” said David Park, Executive Vice President of Commercial Banking and Treasury Management at Axos. “We are confident that Kris has the relationships and expertise to grow our Middle Market team in a methodical and strategic way.”

“I’m excited about building and growing the Middle Market Banking Group at Axos,” said Ilkov. “We have a strong team in place, and we will look to enhance our expertise in select industries and geographies where Axos historically has not had a significant presence in. Axos’s entrepreneurial culture and strong reputation provide me with a strong foundation for success.”