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Dear Reader:
2024 has started with more optimism than has been seen over the past few years as economic expectations improve (what recession?) even as political uncertainty and shrinking margins persist.

B2B PUBLISHING
Produced by L.A. Times B2B Publishing.

CEO Confidence Improved in Q1 2024
For the first time in two years, optimism outweighs pessimism among CEOs.

Federal Reserve
Board Releases Hypothetical Scenarios for Annual Stress Test

VAST MAJORITY OF LARGE ENTERPRISE FINANCE TEAMS PLAN TO USE INTERNAL AI PLATFORMS BY 2026
By 2026, 80% of large enterprise finance teams will rely on internally managed and owned generative AI platforms trained with proprietary business data, according to Gartner, Inc.

M&A Activity Poised for a Rebound in 2024; Value of Deals Expected to Increase
Deloitte recently released the findings of its “2024 M&A Trends Survey: Mind the Gap,” asking corporate and private equity (PE) leaders in the U.S. about their expectations for M&A activity in the upcoming 12 months as well as their experiences with recent transactions.

Tokenization of Private Markets Explored by New Partnership
Citi has announced that it has successfully completed a proof of concept on tokenization of private funds along with Wellington Management and WisdomTree.

CFOs Will Be Challenged with EBITDA Margins Shrinking by More Than 30% by 2027
By 2027, weak demand and rising costs will shrink earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margins by more than 30% relative to 2022, according to Gartner, Inc.

CLIMATE METRICS SURGE IN EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PLANS – FROM 25% TO 54% IN JUST TWO YEARS
The share of S&P 500 companies integrating climate-related metrics into their executives’ compensation plans more than doubled over the past two years, according to a new report from The Conference Board based on disclosure data from ESGAUGE.

UCLA Anderson Forecast Data Indicates ‘No Recession’
California’s slower-growing economy continues to outpace the weak growth of the U.S. economy.

Bank Economists Express Cautious Optimism About Credit Conditions
While bank economists expect credit conditions to continue to weaken compared to the extremely strong position of the last few years, their outlook for the first half of the year is notably more optimistic, according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released recently.

CEOs Rank National Debt as the Top Geopolitics Threat in 2024
Global uncertainty could play an outsized role, but the United States has an urgent need to reduce and address debt, say experts.

Leading Transformation is the Top Priority for CFOs
Leading digital transformation efforts in the finance function is the top area CFOs are focused on in 2024, according to a recent survey.

Busting the Myth that Affordable Higher Education is an Impossible Dream
We all know untenable student loan debt has been commanding the news since the last election cycle.

Technology Extends Client Touch Points for Banks
In a year filled with uncertainty in the banking sector, SoCal banks and their leaders remain optimistic and push for customer growth at the community level

TOP 50 BANKS in SoCal
LATimes B2B Publishing is proud to present the list of the 50 largest banks headquartered in Southern California ranked by assets.

TOP CREDIT UNIONS in SoCal
LA Times B2B Publishing is proud to also present the list of the 25 largest credit unions headquartered in Southern California as ranked by assets.

Trever Acers
Trever Acers, founder and managing director of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation, leads the technology practice for Investment Banking with over 20 years of experience in investment banking, acquisition and strategy.

Enrique Aceves
Enrique Aceves, head of global enterprise marketing technology and analytics at Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA), spearheads transformative initiatives in marketing technology and analytics.

Banking and Finance VISIONARIES
In the complex world of banking and finance, the right commercial banker or a trusted advisor is an invaluable asset.

Neto Alexander
Neto Alexander, a seasoned senior advisor, specializes in driving corporate and private equity clients through complex growth and margin improvement initiatives, particularly in tech sectors.

David M.V. Barnes
David M.V. Barnes, managing director and head of M&A at Palm Tree LLC, boasts over 30 years of expertise in investment banking, private equity and corporate development.

Rick Barragan
Rick Barragan is a managing director and market manager in the Los Angeles office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank. He manages a team of bankers and specialists who deliver differentiated strategies that care for the unique requirements of significant wealth.

Addie Allison
Addie Allison, senior vice president and chief experience officer at First Entertainment Credit Union, brings 30 years of financial services expertise.

Letitia Berbaum
Letitia Berbaum, partner and chief operating officer of The Zandbergen Group, manages $330 million in assets, focusing on “true wealth” strategies and successful exit plans.

Christopher Baron
Christopher Baron, president of Banc of California's Los Angeles region, boasts over three decades of exemplary banking and finance experience.

Darnel J. Bentz
Darnel Bentz, senior wealth advisor at Kayne Anderson Rudnick (KAR), embarked on his financial journey after his father's passing during his college years at Arizona State University.

Katherine C. Bissett
Katherine C. Bissett, a commercial real estate finance attorney at Cox Castle, specializes in complex transactions, advising clients on loans exceeding $700 million in 2022.

Samuel Biggs
Samuel Biggs, partner at SingerLewak, boasts a multifaceted career in corporate operations, trust and probate matters, M&A and reorganizations.

Kara Boccella
Kara Boccella, a seasoned wealth manager with a 30-year career, oversees $900M in client assets with a retention rate above 99%. Recognized by Forbes and the Los Angeles Business Journal, she's esteemed for her expertise and integrity.

Tom Calahan
Tom Calahan serves as senior vice president and director of business development at Partners Bank of California. Prior to joining Partners in 2016, he began his career in financial services in 2011 and served as a business banker for U.S. Bank, leading the region in production.

Diane Cabo
Diane Cabo is a managing director at CriticalPoint, a firm that merges investment banking and private capital services. Since 2016, she's advised owners on M&A, debt and equity raises across sectors like apparel, consumer goods, healthcare and manufacturing.

Patrick S. Brown
Patrick Brown, managing partner of Sullivan & Cromwell’s Los Angeles office, brings over 25 years of experience advising on corporate matters globally. His expertise spans mergers and acquisitions, securities offerings, corporate governance and securities advice across diverse industries.

Anthony R. Callobre
Anthony R. Callobre, partner at Blank Rome LLP's Los Angeles office, is a leading banking and finance lawyer in California, renowned for excellence on both borrower and lender sides of commercial loan transactions.

Richard Cabrera
Richard Cabrera serves as executive vice president and head of middle market banking at Umpqua Bank, a top-30 U.S. bank. Responsible for mid-size company banking across eight states, he leads asset-based lending, debt capital markets and corporate banking.

Peter J. Boyle
Peter Boyle, chief executive officer of Clifford Swan Investment Counselors since 2020, brings extensive expertise, serving as chief investment officer since 2010 and president since 2001.

Sheryl Cefali
Sherry Cefali, managing director at Duff & Phelps Opinions Practice of Kroll, LLC, brings over 30 years of experience advising companies and boards on fairness opinions, solvency opinions and valuations. She chairs the compensation committee and serves on various committees at RF Industries.

Alexander L. Cappello
Alexander Cappello, founder of an esteemed independent investment bank, has over 50 years of experience, completing transactions worth $160 billion in over 60 countries.

David Cameron
David Cameron, executive vice president of personal & business banking at City National Bank, has extensive experience in financial services having joined the company in 2005 and rising through the ranks.

Marco Costales
Marco Costales brings extensive expertise to business transactions, catering to diverse industries like hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, technology and more.

Nick Cipiti
Nick Cipiti commenced his finance career at Deloitte in New York City, focusing on health plan and financial services clients, notably EmblemHealth.

Nishita Cummings
Nishita Cummings, managing partner and co-head of Kayne Anderson Growth Capital at Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P., has advanced from associate to co-head of growth equity strategy and joined Kayne’s Board of Directors during her tenure of 15-plus years.

Michael Chambers
Michael Chambers, president and chief banking officer of Partners Bank of California, also serves on the bank’s board of directors since 2023. He joined the bank as an original investor and employee in 2007, contributing to its growth as a leading business bank focusing on Orange and Los Angeles counties.

Cécile Chalifour
Cecile Chalifour is head of the West Region for Chase Community Development Banking. As part of a global financial services firm with $3.9 trillion as of December 2023, Community Development Banking is a leader in providing financing solutions that benefit communities across the country.

Leon Chen
Leon Chen transitioned from senior associate to managing partner at Kayne Anderson Growth Capital in less than a decade, excelling in identifying investment opportunities and fostering growth in technology companies.

Brian Davidoff
Brian Davidoff chairs Greenberg Glusker’s Bankruptcy, Reorganization and Capital Recovery Group, specializing in guiding middle-market companies, creditors and distressed asset transactions.

Erik William Daniels
Erik Daniels leads U.S. Bank's SBA Lending division, facilitating small business growth nationwide. Under his direction, the team secured over 2,200 SBA 7(a) loans in fiscal 2023, ranking fourth among all lenders. U.S. Bank claimed top lender status in California, both in loans made and dollar volume.

James F. Davidson
James Davidson, with over 35 years in business and corporate management, is the managing director, president and founder of Avant Advisory Group, Inc. He specializes in distressed & special situations, mergers & acquisitions, forensic accounting and CFO services.

Mark Steven Demos
Mark Demos started his career at Crowe LLP in Michigan after graduating from Michigan State University. Crowe, a top public accounting firm nationally, specializes in financial services and consistently ranks among Forbes' Top 100 Best Companies to Work For and Glassdoor's 100 Best Places to Work.

Tyrone Dinneen
Tyrone Dinneen, a University of Idaho graduate in public communications, embarked on a career journey that blends purpose and financial expertise.

Eugene N. Dunford
Eugene Dunford, as senior managing director of Umpqua Bank's Los Angeles Commercial Banking division, oversees approximately $800 million in bank assets.

Donald E. Evenson
Donald E. Evenson, senior vice president and chief investment officer of CitizensTrust, brings over 30 years of industry experience. Before joining CitizensTrust in April 2016, he founded AVR Boulder Bay Capital, managing the AVR Opportunity Fund since its inception in 2012.

Kayo M. Elkner
Kayo M. Elkner, principal at Prager Metis, brings over 20 years of CPA experience to the accounting and tax departments. Specializing in services for individuals and closely held businesses, she prepares various tax returns for clients in the U.S. and abroad, notably Japanese clients in Hawaii and California.

Jacky Dilfer
Jacky Dilfer is a commercial and SBA lending expert with over two decades of experience in the San Francisco Bay Area and Southern California. As executive director of Business Finance Capital (BFC), she has led the organization's rapid growth, consistently ranking among the top national institutions in SBA loan volume.

Corey Eric Fischer
Corey Fischer, managing partner of Weinberg & Company, brings over 20 years of CPA expertise to the firm's accounting and tax departments.

Dean Fredgant
Dean Fredgant, partner at SingerLewak, boasts over 40 years of diverse public accounting experience, focusing on tax compliance, trust and estate matters, business consulting and dispute resolution.

Mark Flewelling
Mark Flewelling, a partner at Lagerlof, LLP, brings over 40 years of expertise in litigation and appellate law, particularly in banking and financial institutions.

Robert Fox
As managing director of private equity at McGuireWoods, Robert Fox drives business development initiatives, nurtures client relationships and leads groundbreaking programs for emerging managers and independent sponsors.

Elizabeth Fuchs
Elizabeth Fuchs leads a team of commercial banking professionals in Southern California catering to large- and middle-market companies. With over three decades of experience in executive sales and credit leadership roles, she specializes in global business operations, adeptly navigating economic fluctuations.

Steve Fried
Steve Fried, principal at Mesa West Capital, assumed the role of head of originations in 2023, overseeing national loan teams in major cities and facilitating an annual $3-billion mortgage origination.

Dustin Gale
Dustin Gale developed a passion for finance early in life, inspired by his father. Starting as a teller while studying finance at the University of Arizona, he progressed through roles at Bank of America and Wells Fargo Private Bank before joining Kayne Anderson Rudnick.

Andrew H. Fuller
Andrew Fuller, MSF, CFP©, is a partner and managing director at Creative Planning in the L.A./Orange County region, boasting nearly 20 years in the financial industry.

Chris Galeski
Chris Galeski transitioned from professional golf to wealth management, channeling his passion into helping families optimize their finances. As a leader, he directs wealth advisors and led 15 of the other advisors to bring in 84 new clients in 2023, totaling $1,224 million of new revenue for the year.

Austin Glassman
Austin Glassman, a corporate partner at Kirkland & Ellis’ Los Angeles Debt Finance Practice Group, specializes in financing transactions for private equity sponsors. In the past 18 months alone, he has overseen financings totaling nearly $40 billion, ranging from mega-acquisitions to first-time financings for tech startups.

Jonathan L. Gerber
Jonathan Gerber, embodying the “Beyond Beancounting” philosophy, showcases innovative client service and leadership. With degrees from NYU Stern School and USC, he provides comprehensive planning solutions, transcending conventional boundaries with creative problem-solving skills.

Lloyd Greif
Lloyd Greif, founder of Greif & Co. in 1992, boasts a distinguished career in investment banking. He served as vice chairman at Sutro & Co. Incorporated and was instrumental in its growth. Prior, he was a management consultant at Touche, Ross & Co.

Kathleen Gilmore
In 2020, Kathleen Gilmore assumed the roles of chair and president at Clifford Swan Investment Counselors, which she initially joined in 2002.

Eric Andrew Gray
As managing director and founder of the Gray-Polverini Team in Los Angeles, Eric Gray along with his team specializes in serving ultra-high-net-worth families as their trusted “thinking partner” in wealth management.

Dennis Gilkerson
Dennis Gilkerson is the senior vice president and regional manager in wealth management and private banking at California Bank & Trust. He aids affluent individuals, business owners and families with complex financial needs.

Petra Griffith
Wedbush Ventures prioritizes operational expertise and a product-building mentality for evaluating seed or pre-seed companies, aiming to foster innovation in product strategy.

Eric “Tony” A. Gronroos
Eric A. Gronroos, MBT, CPA, boasts over 25 years in public accounting, specializing in federal and state income tax services across diverse sectors, like manufacturing, investment banking and real estate. His expertise extends to debt funds and private equity.

Ronnie Gul
Ronnie Gul, principal at Mesa West Capital, became co-CEO in 2023 with Raphael Fishbach, managing $9 billion in loans. He led Mesa West to prominence as a top debt fund manager, expanding its reach nationwide.

Michele Havens
Michele Havens, president of Northern Trust’s West Region, spearheads wealth management operations spanning from Washington to Texas. With a track record of success, she previously held pivotal roles including president of the Southern California and Los Angeles regions.

Channing Hamlet
Channing Hamlet, managing director and co-owner of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation, brings over 25 years of expertise in advising business owners on management, transactions and valuation.

Gregory Hebner
Gregory Hebner, managing director of Arixa Capital since 2012, acquired majority ownership in 2023 with Seth Davis and investors. With over 25 years in real estate, he managed investment vehicles, completing hundreds of single-family projects.

Jeri J. Harman
Jeri Harman, founder & chairman of Avante Capital Partners, has over 30 years of financing and M&A experience, exceeding $1 billion in aggregate investments. Formerly with American Capital and Allied Capital, she started and led their Los Angeles offices.

Brent Horstman
Brent Horstman, who has spent his entire legal career at Sheppard Mullin, is a partner and former leader of the firm’s finance and bankruptcy practice. Clients turn to Horstman for his expertise on real and personal property, secured financings and workouts.

Jeremy Holland
Jeremy Holland, managing partner at The Riverside Company, leads the origination team in North America with 26 years of private equity experience in Los Angeles. Known for his dedication to others' success, Holland transitioned to origination at Riverside in 2010, focusing on Western U.

Mollie Kaiser
Mollie Kaiser, an accomplished financial advisor at Strategic View Advisors, contributes invaluable guidance to clients and actively participates in key committees, including financial planning and investment.

Maria Hunter
Maria Hunter, a Nicaraguan native, immigrated to Los Angeles at age 10, surmounting linguistic and cultural barriers. She pursued finance at Old Dominion University, Virginia and following graduation honed her banking acumen for five years on the East Coast before returning to her cherished Los Angeles.

Brian Ishida
Brian Ishida, EVP and regional manager at Banc of California, is renowned for delivering innovative, client-centric solutions in banking and finance. His career trajectory, from a management trainee to his current executive role, underscores his commitment to excellence.

Karan Kapoor
Karan Kapoor, a managing director at Cantor Fitzgerald's investment banking division, spearheads the global tech investment banking group.

Anthony Kim
Anthony Kim serves as Hanmi Bank's senior executive vice president and chief banking officer, overseeing revenue generation, new loan production and deposit gathering across 35 branches, two corporate banking centers and the specialty lending group.

Ken Kramer
Ken Kramer, appointed senior vice president and chief financial officer at First Entertainment Credit Union in 2020, brings over 20 years of banking experience. Responsible for financial planning, policies and accounting practices, he plays a vital role in steering First Entertainment.

Bryan A. Kenny
Bryan Kenny, a distinguished figure in mortgage banking and capital advisory, boasts nearly 25 years of expertise in commercial real estate finance.

Amy Ko
Amy Ko, regional managing director at Fiduciary Trust International, has over 20 years of wealth management experience. As a first-generation Chinese American she draws from her upbringing to empathize with underserved communities and actively supports Bay Area nonprofits.

Nisha Kanchanapoomi
Nisha Kanchanapoomi, a corporate partner at Kirkland & Ellis, is an essential figure in the firm's Los Angeles corporate debt finance practice group. Her diverse practice encompasses representing private equity funds, funds and corporate borrowers in complex transactions.

Jeffrey A. Krieger
Jeffrey Krieger, a partner at Greenberg Glusker, specializes in bankruptcy and commercial law, serving both creditors and debtors. His expertise aids clients in navigating financial distress, offering strategic counsel to maximize opportunities and manage risks in bankruptcy proceedings.

Deborah La Franchi
Deborah La Franchi, founder and CEO of SDS Capital Group since 2001, leads a $1.9 billion firm focused on affordable housing development. Her leadership drives impactful investments, including the $190 million SDS Supportive Housing Fund providing housing for Californians.

Brian Landau
Brian Landau has over 20 years of public accounting experience in the areas of taxation, audit, insolvency, litigation support and consulting services for small to mid-size privately held companies.

Dan Landes
Dan Landes, CPA, partner at GHJ, excels in financial advisory services, notably in media and advertising revenue recognition. Leading GHJ's Media and Advertising Practice, his innovative consulting has guided clients through evolving financial landscapes.

Mastaneh Masghati
Mastaneh Masghati has 30 years of experience in the banking industry. During her career, she has led several teams including IT, product management and global treasury management sales. Masghati is considered a strong and effective leader within her industry.

Marissa Arielle Lepor
Marissa Lepor, director and head of beauty & personal care at The Sage Group, brings an entrepreneurial approach to investment banking. Raised in Los Angeles, she garnered diverse experiences, including internships with notable figures like Gillian Zuker and Joyce Azria.

Homin Lee
Homin Lee is a shareholder in Greenberg Traurig's Los Angeles Corporate Practice, where he specializes in financial transactions, advising banks, commercial finance companies, private equity sponsors and diverse companies.

Andrew Manier
Andrew Manier specializes in financial consulting for medical professionals, business owners, affluent families and CPAs, aiming to enhance their financial well-being. With over a decade of experience at Northwestern Mutual where he started as an intern in 2011, he founded Sage Capital Wealth Management & Insurance Solutions.

Edwin Loredo
Edwin Loredo, a native of Burbank, California, and son of immigrant single mother Rebecca Andrade, embodies resilience and achievement. Despite humble beginnings, he was able to excel academically and athletically.

Michael Metzger
Michael Metzger, a managing partner at Drake Star Partners, oversees a team of 100 professionals spanning the U.S., Europe and Asia. With over 25 years of expertise in M&A, financing and corporate development within the internet and tech sectors, he has facilitated 17 successful transactions since joining Drake Star in 2018.

John G. Mavredakis
John Mavredakis is a seasoned senior managing director and the global head of Houlihan Lokey’s Financial Sponsors Group. With over 35 years of expertise in mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, private financings, and ESOP buyouts, he has personally closed more than 500 transactions.

Peter Massumi
Peter Massumi, co-founder and managing partner of Massumi + Consoli LLP in Los Angeles, specializes in representing private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies in various transactions.

Kevin Miller
Kevin H. Miller serves as the chief executive officer and founding member of Thorofare Capital, playing a pivotal role in shaping the firm's core investment philosophy. Under his leadership, Thorofare Capital has introduced private discretionary debt funds, institutional joint ventures, and separate accounts.

Dan Miller
Dan Miller, a founding partner of Miller Barondess, LLP, specializes in litigation across California and nationally. Recognized among Los Angeles' top litigators and by Best Lawyers in America® for Commercial Litigation and Litigation - Real Estate, he excels in representing clients in banking and private equity.

Alissa Miller
Alissa Miller, a distinguished finance attorney specializing in the entertainment sector, is renowned as one of Hollywood’s premier dealmakers.

Michal Miron
Michal Miron is the executive vice president and California region manager at IDB Bank, a New York-based private and commercial bank. She joined IDB in February 2023 from Bank Leumi, where she served as the West Coast market president.

Karen Millerd Miles
Karen Miles is a managing director at Huron Consulting Group Inc., leading the firm's valuation practice within the business advisory practice. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in valuations for various purposes, including transactions, fairness opinions and tax valuations.

Stephen Miyabe
As Northern Trust’s market leader in Pasadena, Stephen Miyabe is responsible for the firm’s investment management, trust, estate and private banking business.

Brady Money
Brady Money graduated magna cum laude with B.S. degrees in finance and economics from the University of Utah's David Eccles School of Business, earning accolades such as Outstanding Finance Scholar and The Wall Street Journal Scholar Awards.

Sandra Lee Montgomery
Sandra Lee Montgomery is a prominent figure in private capital, excelling in the banking and finance sector, with a track record of closing over $5.5 billion in transactions in 2023.

Christopher Montes
Christopher Montes, director at Walker & Dunlop’s Multifamily Finance team in Los Angeles, brings over a dozen years of experience in commercial real estate finance, specializing in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs.

Bruce C. Munster
Bruce Munster is a principal at the Munster Freeman Group, operating within Merrill Private Wealth Management with offices in Scottsdale, AZ, and Denver, CO. The group caters to a diverse clientele, including inventors, entrepreneurs, entertainers, investors and executives from investment banks and private equity firms.

Farzad Mukhi
Farzad Mukhi, a seasoned deal professional, specializes in advising business owners on sale transactions and capital raises. With a focus on project management, he handles various investment banking engagements such as sell-side and buy-side transactions, leveraged buyouts and debt and equity financings.

Hamid Namazie
Hamid Namazie, a seasoned attorney, specializes in representing diverse clients such as banks, institutional lenders and commercial finance companies. His practice revolves around asset-based loans, senior-secured loans, second-lien loans and subordinated loans.

Jonathan Morales
Jonathan Morales serves as the California head of community & business development at JPMorgan Chase. Leading the financial health strategy across the state, his focus lies on building trust in underserved local communities and providing resources to drive economic equity, particularly within Black and Hispanic/Latino communities.

Steve Moon
Steve Moon, a managing director at Kroll Securities for 24 years, serves as deputy head of mergers and acquisitions for the Americas and co-head of the Aerospace, Defense and Government Mergers & Acquisitions Group.

Chikara Ricky Nagano
Chikara Ricky Nagano, a partner at Prager Metis in the accounting and attest department, leads the Japanese Global Services Group.

Irene H. Oh
Irene H. Oh assumed the role of executive vice president and chief risk officer at East West Bancorp and East West Bank in October 2023, transitioning from her 13-year tenure as the company's chief financial officer.

Wes Nichols
Wes Nichols leverages over a decade of experience in business development, commercial real estate and property tax reduction. His dedicated work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit have driven significant growth in his career and company.

David J. Nelson
David Nelson assumed the role of chief operating officer at Clifford Swan in 2023 overseeing operations, technology and human resources. In his tenure, he has optimized operations through new technologies and initiated three employee incentive programs to drive transformative change and enhance client experiences.

Thomas Pastore
Sanli Pastore & Hill possesses extensive experience in financial institution valuation, offering services such as fairness opinions for mergers, financial advisory consulting, expert witness services and valuations for tax and financial reporting compliance.

Kevin M. O'Malley
Kevin M. O'Malley joined Blank Rome LLP straight from law school in 2006, relocating to its Los Angeles office three years later to develop the finance practice. Promoted to partner in 2021, he expertly navigated the Paycheck Protection Program during the pandemic.

Scott Olmsted
Scott Olmsted heads Bank of America’s National Technology Industry and Green Economy Executive within Global Commercial Banking. Since 2013, he has led industry strategies for advising technology and green economy companies nationwide.

Stephen Owen
Stephen Owen, president and CEO of First Entertainment Credit Union, has over two decades of expertise in the financial sector. His leadership has been pivotal in positioning the credit union as the premier financial ally for entertainment industry professionals, cultivating a top-rated workplace environment.

Ash Patel
Ash Patel, with over 30 years of banking experience, serves as chairman, CEO and president of Commercial Bank of California (CBC). He exemplifies an entrepreneurial spirit, now leading as a seasoned CEO, inspiring both his team and clients to pursue their aspirations.

Anant Patel
As the driving force behind GHJ’s Advisory and Transaction Advisory Services Practice, he has spearheaded global deals and served as the Global Transaction Advisory Services Leader for HLB. His role expanded to HLB Global Leader-Network Capabilities, advising professionals for cross-border solutions.

Scott M. Pearson
Scott Pearson is a partner and leader of Manatt’s esteemed Consumer Financial Services group. With nearly 30 years of experience, he specializes in regulatory enforcement matters, class actions and regulatory compliance for clients in banking, fintech and other industries.

Ashley Player, PE
Ashley Player, PE, is an experienced chemical engineer with over a decade of expertise. Serving as partner-in-charge of ECS Technical Services at Weaver and executive partner of the San Diego office, she drives business development and strategic expansion.

Bennett Pozil
Bennett Pozil, executive vice president at East West Bank, heads the Corporate Banking division, leading U.S. commercial banking operations and overseeing specialized industries like entertainment, new media, sponsor finance and cross-border transactions.

Kate Phelan
Kate Phelan, California regional director of wealth planning and trust advisory, leads a team overseeing wealth planning and trust advisory functions.

Paul Rahimian
Paul Rahimian, CEO and founder of Parkview Financial, oversees a national debt fund specializing in construction financing for ground-up real estate development projects.

Spuds Powell
Spuds Powell, a Cornell University graduate in industrial and labor relations, rose to prominence as Barron's Magazine’s Top Independent Financial Advisor. He joined Kayne Anderson Rudnick (KAR) in 2004 after roles at Franklin Templeton Funds and Financial Engines.

Vanessa Roman
Vanessa Roman is a prominent figure in Akin's entertainment team and the corporate entertainment domain, earning recognition for her leadership and expertise. She's renowned for advising esteemed clients like Comerica Bank, MUFG Bank Ltd., East West Bank and Bank of America on financing for various film and television projects.

Nathan Rogge
Nathan Rogge serves as president and CEO of First Pacific Bank, leveraging 32 years of industry experience to rejuvenate the institution. Within two years, he revitalized operations, expanded the branch network and refocused on small- and medium-sized businesses in Southern California.

Becky Rang
Becky Rang, a Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®) and Retirement Management Advisor (RMA®), joined Avitas Wealth Management in 2021, boasting over a decade of wealth management experience.

Carlos Ramos
Carlos Ramos, EVP, market manager at Banc of California, has over 20 years of commercial and corporate banking experience, leading a high-performing team covering middle-market clients. He specializes in various financing solutions including working capital, acquisitions and asset-based financing.

Sindhu Rajesh
Sindhu Rajesh, CPA, CFE, partner-in-charge at Alternative Investment Services, boasts over 20 years of audit, review and compilation experience, specializing in serving the alternative investment funds sector.

Roger Recupero
Roger Recupero, managing director of the Century City Wealth Management team, specializes in assisting high-net-worth individuals and their families in achieving financial goals through comprehensive wealth planning and investment strategies.

Trevor M. Saliba
Trevor Saliba is the founder, chairman and CEO of NMS Capital Group, a private equity investment firm with diverse investments in real estate, financial services, technology and more. He also serves as COO of NFG SA and founded NMS Consulting, a global management consulting firm with over 250 professionals across 15 offices worldwide.

Stephen E. Rossi
Stephen E. Rossi, managing director at Palm Tree, heads the investment banking arm, overseeing M&A, capital markets and restructuring endeavors. As cofounder of Palm Tree Securities, he facilitated 12 transactions totaling nearly $1 billion in closed transaction value since 2020.

Shlomi Ronen
Shlomi Ronen, managing principal and founder of Dekel Capital, spearheads JV Equity, Capital Advisory and Correspondent Lending platforms. With over 20 years in real estate, he has shaped the commercial landscape. Dekel caters to elite commercial real estate stakeholders with tailored solutions.

Marissa Román Griffith
Marissa Roman Griffith is a distinguished partner at Akin's Los Angeles office, recognized as a trailblazer and influencer in media and entertainment law. Over the past year, she has overseen significant transactions for top-tier clients such as Comerica Bank, MUFG Union Bank, N.

Joseph Rust
Joseph Rust, chief strategic innovation officerand managing partner for Prager Metis' Western Region, brings over 35 years of accounting experience. In his role, he directs strategic focus and execution and fosters innovation within the organization.

Nevin Sanli
Sanli Pastore & Hill, led by president and founder Nevin Sanli, boasts extensive expertise in financial institution valuation, spanning local banks to international giants.

William Schoenholz
William Schoenholz boasts extensive experience in intricate domestic and international financing transactions, representing diverse entities like banks, commercial finance companies, funds and institutional investors.

Martin Sarafa
Martin Sarafa, a founding member of Century Park Capital Partners since 2000, leads investment activities, specializing in leveraged recapitalizations and buyouts. He serves on the investment committee and holds board positions at Accelalpha, MCCi and NCP Coatings.

Greg Satz
Greg Satz, an immigrant from South Africa, relocated to Los Angeles 38 years ago driven by his passion for the stock and bond markets. His journey commenced at a Fortune 500 bank where he specialized in structuring bond portfolios for high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients.

Jonathan Shenson
Jonathan Shenson, a partner at Greenberg Glusker, leads the bankruptcy, reorganization & capital recovery group and the corporate finance & securities department.

Artin Sedighan
Artin Sedighan, an investment banker since 2004, specializes in buy-side and sell-side mergers & acquisitions, capital markets, leveraged finance and restructuring transactions for companies across various industries.

Kevin A. Shields
Kevin Shields, founder of Griffin Capital in 1995 and its current chairman and co-chief executive officer, operates from El Segundo, CA. Griffin Capital sponsors Reg. D Private Placements, notably the Griffin Capital Qualified Opportunity Zone Fund and Griffin Capital Development Partners Fund series, with approximately $1.

Dan Shea
Dan Shea, managing director at Objective, a top-tier investment banking and valuation firm, heads the manufacturing & distribution practice with nearly 30 years of experience in the sector.

Lisa M. Simonetti
Lisa Simonetti, an attorney at Greenberg Traurig, LLP, specializes in defending complex litigation within the financial services industry. She advises regional and national banks, mortgage lenders and consumer finance companies on compliance with state and federal laws.

Jeremy Shulman
Jeremy Shulman, partner at Lagerlof, LLP, specializes in litigation for banking and financial institutions.

Ashley M. Simonsen
Ashley Simonsen, a partner in Covington’s class action and mass torts practices in Los Angeles, boasts a successful track record representing clients in finance, technology and consumer products sectors, including Afterpay, Capital One, Celtic Bank and others.

Jalal Taby
Jalal Taby, SVP and group manager of Comerica Bank, has over 18 years of experience in the commercial banking industry providing financing solutions to middle-market companies. Currently, he has the responsibility of managing and helping grow the San Gabriel middle-market region alongside a team of seasoned and talented commercial bankers.

Aaron Thomas Solganick
Aaron Solganick, CEO and founder of Solganick & Co., has 28 years of experience in investment banking, specializing in software, IT services and healthcare IT. With a track record of over $10 billion in transactions, he's a recognized authority in technology mergers and acquisitions, advising notable clients like Accenture, KPMG and Cognizant.

Michael Sitrick
For over 30 years, Michael Sitrick has been a prominent figure in strategic communications for global banking and finance sectors. Renowned for crisis management expertise, his firm excels in company launches, public offerings, growth initiatives and reputation restoration.

David Sutton
David Sutton, partner and private equity practice leader at GHJ, brings extensive expertise in M&A and financial due diligence, facilitating deals across various sectors from $10 million to $1 billion. As a mentor, he fosters emerging leaders, advocating GHJ's #BeMore ethos and supporting professional growth.

Anna Tang
Anna Tang, Nossaman’s corporate group co-chair, is a distinguished corporate lawyer known for her practical approach to commercial matters and adept handling of complex legal issues and transactions.

Britt Terrell
Britt Terrell, head of Palm Tree Capital Markets, offers over three decades of expertise in corporate finance, leveraged acquisitions and debt restructuring. With a background spanning both borrower and lender sides, he founded Backbone Capital Advisors, specializing in private debt and equity capital raises.

Eric Taslitz
Eric Taslitz is a seasoned managing principal with over twenty-five years of experience in the financial industry. His extensive tenure has fueled his dedication to crafting effective financial solutions for clients.

Cary H. Thompson
Cary Thompson, executive vice chairman of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, is a seasoned advisor renowned for his expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital raising and restructuring, particularly in financial institutions, industrial, technology and media sectors.

Hamed Tavajohi
Hamed Tavajohi, senior vice president and managing market leader at U.S. Bank Greater Los Angeles, oversees retail banking and small business teams across 100 branches spanning Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

Gary Teo
Gary Teo, EVP and chief HR officer at East West Bank for the U.S. and the broader Asian region, has a distinguished 14-year tenure marked by transformative HR strategies. He reshaped Human Capital Management into a strategic asset, reinventing total rewards and aligning pay with performance.

Douglas Andrew Thompson
Douglas Thompson, an adept litigator, specializes in defending class action suits and handling regulatory investigations for financial institutions and businesses.

Michael A. Waxberg
Michael A. Waxberg, founder and private wealth advisor of Fortify Capital, part of the Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group, has over 25 years of experience in investment and financial planning. Specializing in retirement, investment and estate planning, his expertise spans legal, entertainment and business sectors.

Haze G. Walker
Haze Walker specializes in alternative commercial financing for SMEs. Joining Lawrence Financial in 2009, she led strategic partnerships and innovative funding solutions, earning recognition as a top member of OPUS Connect in 2024 and a Top Women Deal Maker by NACLB in 2022.

Mark Udis
Mark Udis, partner at Certuity, specializes in serving individuals and families with significant financial resources, particularly in the family office practice. With a client base including technology entrepreneurs, professional athletes and prominent families, he offers tailored financial strategies and access institutional alternative investments.

Chester Ventura
Chester Ventura, a partner at Withum, brings over 20 years of expertise in providing attestation services to privately held companies across diverse sectors. Joining Martini Partners in 2012, he quickly rose to become a partner in 2020.

Ivo A. Tjan
Ivo A. Tjan serves as chairman, president and CEO of CommerceWest Bank, headquartered in Irvine, California, focusing exclusively on serving the business community statewide, particularly in Orange, San Diego, Los Angeles and Riverside counties.

W. Henry Walker
Henry Walker, who joined Farmers & Merchants (F&M) Bank in 1983 as a teller, now serves as its chief executive officer. Under his leadership, F&M instituted new programs to include regional managers who oversee the health and viability of their assigned branches and the Client Service Concierge program, ensuring top-notch customer service.

Jeff White
Jeff White, managing director at Skyview Capital, forefronts the company's M&A endeavors, leveraging extensive experience in private equity, investment banking and executive management.

Angela Yim-Sullivan
Angela Yim-Sullivan serves as managing director and market executive for Wells Fargo Commercial Bank for the Los Angeles Metro market, part of the company's Greater Los Angeles and West Region.

Bart Zandbergen
Bart Zandbergen, a renowned Certified Financial Planner (CFP), is the founder and chief executive officer of The Zandbergen Group, established in Laguna Beach amidst the pandemic.

Maz Yafeh
Maz Yafeh, managing director at Bank of America’s Investment Banking group, heads Bank of America (BofA) Securities’ Los Angeles Investment Banking office and West Coast Emerging Growth & Regional Coverage group.

Guy Zaczepinski
Guy Zaczepinski has been with Century Park Capital Partners since 2005, where he sources, evaluates and structures buyout transactions as well as monitors portfolio company investments. He serves on the boards of CJ Pony Parts, MCCi, Accelalpha and Dominion Care.

Todd Wilson
Todd Wilson, Greater Los Angeles Metropolitan Area regional president for PNC Bank, drives business development and client relationships while championing community commitment and philanthropy. Overseeing PNC's expansion, he has led remarkable growth, with a 900% business increase and a 30% workforce expansion in just two years.

Claremont Graduate University
The Drucker School of Management MBA infuses Peter Drucker’s pioneering legacy into the curriculum to enhance the future of ethical business leadership.

California State University, Northridge
The MBA program of CSUN’s David Nazarian College of Business and Economics takes pride in the achievements of its students and alumni.

Loyola Marymount University
The LMU MBA Program, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, helps students hone their management skills, develop business acumen, understand global perspectives and expand their network.

University of West Los Angeles
The University of West Los Angeles began as a private educational institution with just six students in 1966, when a visionary group of local educators resolved to address the need for educational programs geared toward the working adult.