Lou Torchio Named to Columbus Business First’s 2026 Power 125

Columbus, Ohio (April 29, 2026) - Northwest Bank is proud to share that Lou Torchio, president and chief executive officer, has been named to Columbus Business First's 2026 Power 125, an annual list recognizing the most influential leaders shaping Central Ohio's business and civic landscape.

Each year, the Power 125 honors executives whose leadership, impact and vision play a critical role in driving economic growth, innovation and community progress across the region. Torchio's inclusion reflects his strategic leadership, commitment to responsible growth and dedication to strengthening the communities Northwest serves.

Since assuming the role of president and CEO in 2022, Torchio has led Northwest Bank and Northwest Bancshares, Inc. through a period of meaningful transformation and momentum, focused on expanding the bank's footprint, enhancing operational performance and reinforcing the values that have guided the bank for 130 years. Under his leadership, Northwest has continued to strengthen its position as a growing, full-service financial institution rooted in customer service and relationship-focused banking.

"I'm honored to be recognized alongside so many respected leaders in Central Ohio," said Torchio. "This recognition is a reflection of the talented people I work with every day and their shared commitment to the customers, clients and communities we serve."

The recognition comes as Northwest Bancshares, Inc. recently announced strong financial results for the first quarter of 2026, reporting the highest net income in the company's 130 year history.

Northwest plans to open five financial centers in the Columbus market in 2026, underscoring the bank's long-term investment in the region. The first location is expected to open in July.

About Northwest Bank

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Northwest Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company of Northwest Bank. Founded in 1896, Northwest Bank is a full-service financial institution offering a complete line of business and personal banking products, as well as employee benefits and wealth management services

Currently, Northwest operates 151 full-service financial centers and ten drive-up locations across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. Northwest Bancshares, Inc.'s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market ("NWBI"). Additional information regarding Northwest Bancshares, Inc. and Northwest Bank can be accessed online at www.northwest.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements with respect to Northwest Bancshares, Inc. (the "Company") including, without limitation, statements relating to the future business plans of the Company. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements are described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 under the section entitled "Item 1A - Risk Factors," and from time to time in other filings made by the Company with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only at the date of the release. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to publicly release any updates or revisions to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard to any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

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