Sams has been instrumental in steering the company's business lines since January 2026, previously serving as Senior Revenue Officer. In his expanded role, he maintains oversight of Treasury Management, Private Banking, and Healthcare Solutions. According to Chuck Parcher, President and CEO of Civista Bank, the appointment leverages Sams’ specific credit discipline and extensive market experience to anchor the bank's long-term expansion goals.

His history with the institution dates back to the 2018 acquisition of United Community Bank, where he had served as Chief Credit Officer since 2014. Following the merger, he acted as Regional Market Executive for Cincinnati and Southeast Indiana. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Graduate School of Banking, Sams also maintains active roles within the community, serving as Secretary of the Civista Charitable Foundation and Treasurer of the Dearborn Community Development Company. Headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio, the $4.3 billion holding company continues to operate 44 locations across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.