Strictly Business

From Business Today:

Gov. Cuomo has taken a step toward revamping the state's economic development efforts, naming Kenneth Adams, president of The Business Council, as CEO of Empire State Development Corp. The Business Council is a conservative, pro-business voice in Albany that has been outspoken about the cost of government. Adams is stepping into the frey, taking the lead role in how the state will boost business.

First Niagara Financial Group has finished an amazing year,with profits rising 59% in the last quarter. Some of that increase is from the bank's acquisitions in Pennsylvania. Next year, the bank's books are expected to show the impact of it's move into New England. And President and CEO John R. Koelmel shows no signs of slowing down, using one of his favorite phrases - "pedal to the metal" - to describe the bank's posture.

Five Star Bank parent Financial Institutions saw fourth-quarter profit fall 5.5% as it set aside more money for loan losses and credit card fraud. For the full year, profits were up 48 percent. "Our back-to-basics banking approach is truly paying off," President and CEO PEter G. Humphrey said.

Who is getting hired, promoted and honored?