In today’s fast-paced business environment, staying informed is key to making confident financial decisions. That’s why we’re launching our new Q&A series, designed to connect you with seasoned banking professionals who are ready to provide practical advice and strategic guidance tailored to your business needs. Join us as we tackle real-world topics and empower you with the knowledge to thrive.
Nicholas DeWitt
Business Banking Regional Sales Manager
Western and Central New York Markets
Nick DeWitt is the Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Business Banking at M&T Bank in Buffalo, N.Y. With deep expertise across finance, strategy and sales, he leads a team dedicated to supporting small businesses. Originally from Syracuse, N.Y., Nick earned his Bachelor of Science and MBA from Canisius University and completed executive programs at Cornell and the Consumer Bankers Association. Nick is active in the community, serving on local boards and participating in charitable events like the Pan-Mass Challenge.
Building financial confidence:
Common questions and clear answers to help you grow.
What trends are you currently seeing in the Business Banking space, and how are they shaping client needs?
We’re seeing small business optimism improving, adoption of tech increasing and a subset of clients who are still awaiting the long-term impacts of tariffs on their businesses. As it relates to tariffs, some clients are pausing projects, but most are deciding to move ahead because they don’t want to miss opportunities. As with many macro-economic changes, there are those who fare well and those that don’t. It’s uncertainty that stalls progress. Our clients need a trusted partner who’s present, responsive and able to connect them with the right experts to solve complex challenges. We’re uniquely positioned to play a meaningful role in supporting their business and helping them succeed.
How is your team helping business clients navigate economic uncertainty or industry-specific challenges?
Clients continue to tell us how much they appreciate our approach to partnership. They have consistently told us they want three things: 1. show up in person 2. get to know their business 3. bring relevant or industry specific information to the discussion. I would be remiss if I didn’t highlight how well our model serves the small business community right now.
What sets us apart is the thoughtful preparation that goes into every client interaction. By asking insightful questions and truly listening, we’re able to uncover opportunities and deliver meaningful value. Every business is unique, and our approach reflects that — we tailor each conversation to meet the specific needs and goals of the client.
What innovations or solutions are you most excited about that could benefit our business banking clients?
One of the innovations we’re most excited about is the ability to operate internally more efficiently and effectively. By streamlining our processes and improving how we prepare for client interactions, we’re able to spend more time engaging with customers and prospects. This means deeper conversations, faster insights and more meaningful support — ultimately helping our business banking clients achieve their goals more confidently.
Can you share a recent success story that illustrates how Business Banking has made a meaningful impact for a client?
How much time do you have?! On a personal level, we just hosted “Family Night” at Highmark Stadium. The event is unmatched: the pictures, videos, and stories that we receive from clients about their children and grandchildren are so rewarding. These are lifelong memories that are worth a lot more than basis points or waived fees. On the business side, we are helping a long-tenured employee buy a local business from the founder. This is allowing our current client to head into retirement and our new client reach his dream of owning a business. It will also allow the company to stay in Buffalo and more than 20 employees to keep their jobs. Small business is the backbone and lifeblood of our economy, and we’re proud to play a part in keeping that system healthy.
What’s your favorite part about Buffalo?
The people. There’s a reason we’re called “The City of Good Neighbors” and there’s no better evidence than being in the community experiencing the great people that we have here. The food and architecture are amazing too.