TUSTIN, Calif., Dec. 1, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Sunwest Bank (OTCBB:SWBC) today announced that it has hired Glenn E. Gray to be its president and CEO. Gray will lead the local business bank which focuses on serving small to mid-sized companies. Additionally, Gray will serve as a member of the bank's Board of Directors.
"We are committed to providing innovative financial solutions and exceptional customer service to our business clients and we are very excited to have Glenn join our team," said Eric Hovde, chairman of the Board of Directors. "We are confident that under Glenn's leadership, we will achieve our growth and profitability goals and firmly establish Sunwest Bank as the leading business bank in Orange County."
Gray joins Sunwest Bank from The Finova Group where he spent the last ten years, most recently as its Chief Operating Officer. Previously, Gray spent eight years with Wells Fargo Bank holding leadership positions in its retail, corporate banking and investment services divisions.
"Glenn has more than 26 years of experience in financial services and over that time has developed strong business relationships, proven leadership skills and an overriding reputation for professionalism," said Hovde. "We look forward to the contributions that he will make in helping us expand our business with both new and existing customers."
Tara Balfour, who joined the bank's board in May 2005, was recently named as Executive Managing Director, responsible for leading the bank through its transition to a new CEO. Balfour will remain on as a member of the bank's Board of Directors. Irv Beimler, who also served as an interim Chief Executive over this past year, will continue in his role as a member of the Board of Directors.
"We have benefited from the experience and direction of our two board members, Irv Beimler and Tara Balfour, who have enabled us to retain key employees, take care of our customers and strategically position Sunwest Bank for the future," said Hovde. "We are all very appreciative of their invaluable contributions and look forward to their continued involvement as members of the Board of Directors."
Sunwest Bank is a leading provider of banking services to businesses throughout Orange County and the surrounding areas. Through its California offices in Tustin, Newport Beach, Laguna Hills and Anaheim, Sunwest Bank offers customized banking products, with the highest level of personal service. Sunwest Bank also has experienced banking teams specializing in residential and commercial real estate, homeowners' associations and property management companies.
For more information, visit www.sunwestbank.com.
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