Hiram College today announced that James M. Malz ’87 has been appointed interim president, effective June 1, 2026, following the departure of President Robert E. Bohrer II.
Malz, a member of the Hiram College Board of Trustees and a 1987 graduate of the College, brings more than three decades of executive leadership experience in financial services, along with a strong record of organizational growth, talent development, and community engagement.
Most recently, Malz served as Managing Director and Midwest Regional Executive at Citizens Financial Group, as well as President of the Ohio Market within its corporate banking division. He led teams across Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois, driving revenue growth, overseeing multi-billion-dollar portfolios, and strengthening client and community partnerships.
Prior to Citizens, Malz spent nearly two decades with JPMorgan Chase & Co., where he held several senior leadership positions, including Managing Director and Region Head for Ohio. In that capacity, he oversaw middle market banking operations, led expansion efforts into new markets, and built high-performing teams focused on delivering comprehensive financial solutions. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at KeyCorp, steadily advancing from associate to senior vice president while managing commercial banking teams throughout Northeast Ohio.
“Returning to Hiram in this capacity is both an honor and a responsibility I take seriously,” said Malz. “This institution shaped my life in profound ways, and I am committed to ensuring that today’s students—and future generations—continue to benefit from the same transformative experience. I look forward to working closely with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the Board to build on Hiram’s strengths and continue moving the College forward.”
As interim president, Malz will provide leadership and continuity during the transition period while the Board conducts a national search for the College’s next president.
“Jim Malz is an accomplished leader with a deep understanding of both Hiram College and the broader higher education landscape,” said Robert W. Turner ’72, chair of the Board of Trustees. “His extensive experience leading complex organizations, coupled with his strong connection to Hiram, positions him exceptionally well to guide the College during this important time. We are grateful for his willingness to serve and confident in his leadership.”
Malz has remained actively engaged with Hiram College through his service on the Board of Trustees and his involvement in numerous community and nonprofit organizations. His leadership experience includes overseeing corporate banking operations across multiple states, fostering organizational growth, and strengthening institutional partnerships.
The College will share additional updates regarding the presidential search process in the coming months.
By Jenelle Sanders
