Commerce Bank Promotes Axel Larson and Scott Swartzendruber.
PEORIA, IL - Brent Eichelberger, CEO, Commerce Bank Illinois, today announced the promotions of two long-time Commerce bankers, Axel Larson and Scott Swartzendruber, to key leadership positions in Illinois.
Larson has been promoted to president in Peoria, while Swartzendruber has been named executive vice president and commercial banking division manager in Illinois.
“These promotions reflect the exceptional leadership, commitment, and contributions that Axel and Scott have demonstrated throughout their careers at Commerce Bank,” said Eichelberger. “Both have built strong relationships with clients, team members, and communities across Illinois, and they are well-positioned to help drive our continued growth and success.”
Axel Larson named Peoria president
In his new role as Peoria president, Larson will lead Commerce Bank’s efforts in the greater Peoria area, helping strengthen client relationships, support community engagement initiatives, and drive business growth.
Larson brings 19 years of banking experience and has spent the past nine years with Commerce Bank. Most recently, he led the bank’s commercial banking portfolio management team in Illinois. Throughout his career, Larson has supported customers across many facets of banking, earning a reputation for his broad perspective, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to client success.
“We’re thrilled to see Axel step into this key leadership role in the Peoria area,” said Eichelberger. “Commerce Bank has a strong history of valued client relationships, community leadership, and extensive involvement throughout the region. In addition to Axel’s highly collaborative approach, he brings strong banking knowledge and leadership skills as he joins executive leaders Chad Kirkenmeier, Pam Howe, and Pam Craig to help grow our presence in Peoria.”
Larson is actively involved in the area, serving as a Finance Committee member for Lifelong Access. He is a graduate of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership School and volunteers as a youth baseball coach.
Scott Swartzendruber promoted to executive vice president and commercial banking division manager
Swartzendruber has been promoted to executive vice president and commercial banking division manager in Illinois. In this role, he will have primary responsibility for managing and growing Commerce Bank’s Commercial Banking business throughout Illinois.
A 26-year Commerce Bank veteran, Swartzendruber has built a strong reputation for leadership and deep industry experience. Throughout his career, he has developed significant knowledge in the agribusiness sector, serving clients through a thoughtful, relationship-focused approach.
“Scott’s extensive experience, leadership abilities, and understanding of the Illinois commercial banking landscape make him exceptionally qualified for this role,” said Eichelberger. “His commitment to clients and team members has been instrumental to our success, and we look forward to the impact he will continue to make across the state.”
Swartzendruber is a past Alliance Director for the Grain and Feed Association, serves on the alumni board for Alpha Gamma Rho, and holds a leadership role within his church.
Swartzendruber will oversee commercial banking in Illinois and join executive leaders Axel Larson, Chad Kirkenmeier, Pam Howe and Pam Craig in helping grow the bank’s presence. Steve Sebade will continue to lead Commerce Bank’s Illinois agribusiness and food processing division, providing continuity in a key industry segment.
About Commerce Bank
Commerce Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBSH) is a regional bank holding company with $35.7 billion in assets¹, offering banking, payment solutions, wealth management and securities brokerage through its subsidiaries. Commerce Bank, its primary subsidiary, brings over 160 years of experience helping individuals and businesses through high-touch service and sophisticated, personalized financial solutions.
Commerce maintains an extensive network of banking centers, wealth offices, and ATMs throughout the Midwest, as well as commercial offices in 11 states and offers payment solutions nationwide. With its recent acquisition of FineMark Holdings, Inc., Commerce builds on its existing private banking and wealth management presence in Florida and adds wealth offices in Arizona and South Carolina. Customers can conveniently access their accounts 24/7 using mobile and online platforms, as well as a customer service line.
Learn more at www.commercebank.com
1As of March 31, 2026
