A strong team of experienced bankers have raised the banner on their new Santa Monica location, returning to the city to serve the community.
The new branch of National Bank of California is located at 805 Wilshire Blvd. and is scheduled to open officially mid-year after the bank’s merger with its sister bank, Commercial Bank of California, headquartered in Orange County. The two banks currently share the same ownership, and when merged, will become Commercial Bank of California.
“Our banking team is looking forward to returning to Santa Monica and to the merger with Commercial Bank of California,” said Dick Lawrence, Executive Vice President of the new branch. “This combination with a BauerFinancial, Inc. five-star-rated bank will further support the increasing needs of growing companies in Santa Monica and on the Westside.”
The banking team has worked together for over 15 years serving the personal and business needs of clients on the Westside, and in particular, Santa Monica.
The branch officers are well-known in the Santa Monica community. Kathy Irby, Vice President, was Assistant Manager of the Boston Private Bank & Trust office before joining National Bank of California in Brentwood in June, 2011. She has extensive community service experience.
Irby has served as a chair or committee member for several non-profit organizations, including the Santa Monica Kiwanis Club and the Santa Monica Police Activities League (PAL).
Lawrence also has long term ties to Santa Monica having been EVP and Chief Credit Officer for Santa Monica Bank from 1982 to 1993. He has also been past chair of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, past president of the Rotary Club of Santa Monica, the Santa Monica Family YMCA, and the Santa Monica College Associates. He continues to be an active member in these organizations.
The combination of local know-how and professional services is shaping up to be a promising addition to the banking scene in Santa Monica.
“National Bank of California has a proud reputation for serving the business and personal banking needs of its clients,” commented Rick Mateus, Regional Vice President. “Also, our employees are very active in local non-profit organizations.”
Mateus has been at National Bank for six years. His 38 years of banking experience include serving as EVP and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Encino State Bank.
Jennifer Irizarry, Vice President, is a loan underwriter and business development officer. She has worked for the bank for six years. Chanthan Pom, Assistant Vice President is also a six-year employee.
For more information go to: nbcal.com.
