A FinFET device includes a plurality of spaced-apart trenches in a semiconducting substrate, the plurality of spaced-apart trenches at least partially defining a fin for the FinFET device, wherein the fin comprises a first semiconductor material. A first layer of insulating material is positioned above a bottom surface of each of the plurality of spaced-apart trenches and an etch stop layer is positioned above an upper surface of the first layer of insulating material in each of the plurality of spaced-apart trenches. A metal silicide region is positioned on at least all sidewall surfaces of the fin that extend above the upper surface of the etch stop layer.