Bank of the West’s Equipment Finance Division announced the addition of two new key hires. Jay Buechler, Vice President of Sales, and Jim Acee, Vice President, National Account Manager for the material handling segment, joined the bank in January.

Buechler will be responsible for expanding originations in key vendor programs and leading the wholesale floorplan team. He recently served as Director of Trade Finance for Manitowoc Company and brings a breadth of experience in banking, vendor and captive finance.

Jim Acee was added to the team to expand the material handling business. Acee brings several years of experience in vendor finance and material handling and will be responsible for leading the material handling business with manufacturers and regional dealers.

James Elwood, Managing Director for Bank of the West, said, “Both Jay and Jim fill important roles in our vendor group with strong experience in leadership and relationship development. They bring unique qualities to these roles and are instrumental in our growth plans.”