Alan Fishman named chairman of Meridian.

Meridian Capital Group has named Alan H. Fishman Chairman. Fishman was previously president and COO of Sovereign Bank, the 16th largest banking institution in the United States.

Fishman will replace Howard J. Zuckerman, who will become vice chairman. Fishman will work with the company's management team to develop corporate strategy, look into providing financing options and broadening the firm's capabilities. Zuckerman will continue to oversee the company's corporate, legal and administrative operations.

"Alan's vast knowledge and experience couldn't be a better fit for Meridian as we look toward the future and our continued success," said Ralph Herzka, president and CEO of Meridian Capital Group. "Meridian Capital prides itself on offering clients a variety of personalized services, and with Alan's guidance we will look at ways to expand these services."

"I have worked with the Meridian Capital Group for several years on the other side of the business and watched it grow into a nationally recognized leader in real estate finance," said Fishman. "I look forward to working with the partners to build a better company, and guiding it to the next level of success."

Prior to joining Sovereign Bank, Fishman was president and CEO of Independence Community Bank. During his leadership, Independence increased its loan volume and began a regular lending relationship with Meridian Capital Group. Sovereign Bancorp, the parent company of Sovereign Bank, acquired Independence Community Bank in June 2006.

Fishman has devoted his entire career to the financial services industry. He has been a private equity investor, focusing on financial services at Neuberger and Berman, Adler & Shaykin and at his own firm Columbia Financial Partners.

In addition, he held senior executive positions at Chemical Bank, A.I.G. and ContiFinancial Corporation.

Fishman serves on the Board of Directors of KeySpan Corporation where he is chairman of the Audit Committee.