An in-depth conversation with C-suite executives Jim Brush and Brian Reed as Jim prepares for retirement.

Jim and Brian have worked side-by-side for the past three years at Summit State Bank, as President and CEO & EVP, Chief Credit Officer, respectively. In April of 2020, Brian took over as President and CEO while Jim transitioned away from the role and assumed the designation of Chairman of the Board of Directors. Together, Jim and Brian are leading the charge to execute the Bank’s strategic plan and grow the Sonoma County based institution.

In its early beginnings it was a savings bank, where local deposits were attracted by offering products that were at or above market rates. Now, to fund lending activity, the Bank uses the model of relationship banking; a system where veteran Relationship Managers and Branch Managers compete for the deposit and lending relationships of local business and non-profits.

Over the past five years, the Bank has positioned itself for growth and is well positioned to serve customers and our community. The shift in leadership has been a smooth transition for employees, customers, and the community as both Jim and Brian continue to collaborate in their new roles.