Travillian

Curiosity, mentorship, and sushi…three things that might not seem connected, until you meet Lee Easton.In this episode of Travillian Next Trailblazers, host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Lee Easton, Founder of iDENTIFY, to talk about how a childhood mentor and a love for solving complex problems led Lee into the heart of one of banking's biggest challenges: data.From building a unified data hub for community banks to navigating the industry's slow shift to the cloud, Lee shares the ups, downs, and the driving force behind it all—genuine care for the people he serves. Whether you're a founder, a banker, or just someone who enjoys hearing how innovation actually happens, this one's worth a listen!

In the latest episode of Travillian Next, Keith Daly, Principal of Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Caleb Stevens, Vice President - Marketing Manager of Capital Markets & Correspondent Banking at SouthState Bank, to discuss a topic often overlooked in the banking industry—marketing—and its crucial role in community banking. Together, they explore how community banks can leverage modern marketing strategies to stay competitive, from digital marketing to aligning sales and marketing teams.

In Part 2 of this Travillian Next conversation, we build on the lessons learned from Silvergate Bank's rise and fall to explore how stablecoins and tokenized deposits could reshape the banking industry. What you'll learn in this conversation:How Silvergate's experience informs the potential risks and rewards of digital assets in bankingWhat stablecoins and tokenized deposits mean for banks and payments systemsWhy banks need to adapt now to stay competitive in the world of digital financeHow BitGo's MD Ben Reynolds (former President of Silvergate Bank) and Michael Perito, Travillian's Head of Bank Strategy, break down what comes next for the industryThis conversation is a must-watch for anyone in banking or fintech who wants to understand the future of digital assets, payments, and what banks must do to remain relevant.What you'll learn in this conversation:

In part 1 of this two-part series, we sit down with Ben Reynolds, Managing Partner and Head of Stablecoins at BitGo (Former President and Chief Strategy Officer at Silvergate Bank) and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, taking a journey back in time to the early days of Silvergate Bank. A look back at Silvergate's growth in crypto, its attempts at launching a global stablecoin, and its eventual wind-down, left many important lessons learned around novel banking activities which should help build a stronger foundation for innovation in the future.Don't miss Part 2 next week, with a deeper focus on the recent revival of crypto banking activities, and the significant possible disruption from stablecoins and tokenized deposits in the banking sector—subscribe to our mailing list for exclusive early access.

“This business is still people-driven.”In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian's Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, and Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, sit down with Bob White, 1st Colonial Community Bank CEO, for a no-nonsense look at what's shaping the banking industry today. From the battle for top commercial banking talent to the evolving role of technology, the conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities facing financial institutions.Bob shares what he looks for when hiring, why internal training programs matter, and how mergers can be a smart talent play. Plus, they tackle deposit gathering, operational risk, and the future of branch banking.

Welcome back for episode 2 of Travillian Next Trailblazers! In this episode, host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Kalyani Ramadurgam, CEO and Co-Founder of Kobalt Labs, to explore her transition from AI researcher at Stanford University to fintech entrepreneur. Join Keith and Kalyani as they discuss how Kobalt Labs is using AI to streamline compliance, the pivotal role of customer feedback in shaping the platform, and the unexpected challenges that led to major pivots. Kalyani also shares insights from engaging with 200+ compliance officers and her vision for the future of fintech and community banking.

In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search, and Gene Yoshida, an Independent Risk and Compliance Consultant who advises Banks and Fintechs, dive into the fast-moving world of stablecoins and what they mean for banks and fintechs. With regulation still taking shape, can community banks afford to sit this one out? Gene breaks down where stablecoins are headed, why risk management is non-negotiable, and how digital asset firms are eyeing partnerships with traditional banks. If you want to understand the future of money movement, this one's worth a listen.

MidWestOne Bank is a $6.2 billion in assets community bank with a footprint spanning from Denver to Minnesota to its home base in Iowa. As the bank's technology needs evolved, it became clear that the bank had outgrown its existing talent structure. But when is the right time to bring in a CIO—and how do you find the right leader to drive meaningful change? In this conversation, hosted by Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, MOFG leaders share their journey from recognizing the need for a CIO to executing an executive search that led them to the right fit. Join MidWestOne's Chief Executive Officer, Chip Reeves, and new Chief Information Officer, Paul Ho-Sing-Loy, as they discuss the challenges of hiring at the executive level, why they chose to work with a recruiter, and what set their final candidate apart. Also, hear from the recruiter at Travillian, Patrick Cooney, who found Paul and helped him get excited about an opportunity that would see him relocate from New Jersey to Iowa. For banks facing similar growing pains, this conversation offers key takeaways on knowing when to expand your leadership team—and how to make the right hire when you do.

Introducing Travillian Next Trailblazers: The Story Behind the Journey! The Trailblazer Series will dive deeper into the personal story of fintech founders, detailing how they started & grew their company in the face of rejection, resistance, and constant challenges. The life of an entrepreneur can be thrilling, disappointing, risky, rewarding, fulfilling, and of course stressful. The Trailblazer series will focus on the peaks and valleys of the journey with insights and advice for the listeners. In our first episode, host Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Nikhil Lakhanpal, co-founder of Narmi, to explore what it really takes to build a game-changing fintech company. From shaking up the status quo in banking to navigating the chaos of COVID-19, Nikhil shares his journey—full of challenges, innovation, and lessons for aspiring founders. How do you know when it's time to start your own company? What do banks really think about new technology? Why is integration the key to better banking? Don't miss this deep dive into the entrepreneurial mindset, the future of digital banking, and the unexpected hurdles along the way. Listen now!

In one of our final Travillian Next episodes of 2024, join our Head of Bank Strategy, Michael Perito, for this can't-miss conversation with one of the original architects of Banking-as-a-Service, the “Godfather” Brad Hanson. Brad's career in banking and payments is vast, beginning at BankFirst, which later became The Bancorp, Inc. (TBBK), where he started a mortgage division and later a payment card division that became one of the largest in the country. He also was a key architect of building out a similar BaaS platform at Meta Financial Group, now Pathward Financial (CASH), where he lastly served as President and Chief Executive Officer. Brad more recently has started a bank venture in Mexico and serves on various Boards, including as Chair of the Audit Committee at MoneyLion (ML). In this episode, we start at the beginning, discussing why the BaaS business was built out initially and what value proposition it was looking to solve. We also cover the current state of the regulatory regime for innovative banks, what the future of banking could look like, and how the BaaS niche has changed in the last twenty-plus years. Brad has a unique and independent perspective of the current environment, and bankers across the country looking for motivation to innovate take Brad's advice and “run where others aren't.”

In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian's Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search, and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, break down what's ahead for banking and fintech in 2025. With their sharp expertise and lively personalities, they make the tough topics—like succession planning, tech-driven leadership, and the demand for top-tier CFOs—sound anything but boring. The trio breaks down why community banks need to balance big-picture vision with real-world execution, while also stressing the need for fresh strategies in risk management. Packed with insights and a few laughs, this episode shows how banks need to stay on their toes and adapt to a world that's changing faster than ever.

Earlier this year, Newsweek named DFCU Financial one of America's Top Credit Unions. In this episode of Travillian Next, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, was lucky enough to sit down with DFCU's President & CEO, Ryan Goldberg, to uncover the story behind the bank's success and what some would consider “his bold career moves.” What drives a leader to leave a memorable career in community banking and take on the unique challenges of the credit union world? They discuss DFCU's strategic growth through M&A, the approach to leadership and mentorship, and how they're shaping the next generation of talent. Ryan also shares his perspective on the very nuanced task of navigating industry transitions. Chapters 00:00 | Introduction to DFCU Financial and Ryan Goldberg 07:38 | Transition from Community Banking to Credit Unions 14:39 | Navigating Criticism in Credit Union Acquisitions 19:41 | Retention and Integration Post-Acquisition 27:39 | The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth

Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, chats with Tom Ogaard, CEO of Native American Bank, about their efforts to boost economic opportunities in Native American communities. Native American Bank partners with other native loan banks and non-bank native CDFIs to bring financial services to reservation-based communities. They focus on projects such as healthcare facilities, housing, and economic development, aiming to create new jobs and improve the economic opportunities for tribes and tribal communities. Learn more about how Native American Bank is driving change through these strategic partnerships and innovative projects. Topics Discussed: Native American Bank's Mission and Access to Capital Projects and Partnerships with Native Loan Banks and CDFIs Addressing Housing, Health Care, and Economic Development Needs Key Issues in Native American Communities Optimism for the Future

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ. Day of Education – Session #8 Headliner: Johnny Allison, Chairman, CEO & Co-Founder of Home Bancshares Inc - The always colorful, passionate and genuine Johnny talks about the interesting journey of Home Bancshares, provides market commentary and shares stories that shaped his career and life. This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Speaker:Johnny Allison - Chairman/CEO/Co-Founder, Home Bancshares, Inc. Moderators:Joe Fenech, Founder and CIO, GenOpp Capital Management Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Travillian

Join us for this can't miss episode of Travillian Next with Scott Studwell, Stephens' Head of U.S. Depositories and Co-Head of Equity Capital Markets, and Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director at Stephens, as they join our own Michael Perito, Travillian's Head of Bank Strategy, to discuss what the current outlook for bank M&A and capital issuing looks like post election. The political red wave that took over Washington D.C. over the past week leaves bank investors clearly optimistic about the outlook for the banking industry, although what does this mean for bank M&A and capital raising efforts, which have been at historic lows for about two years at this point. Key Points Covered: What drove the slight up-tick in M&A and capital raising efforts in the 2-3 months leading up to the election; and what has investor feedback been. How has the M&A pipeline and conversations shifted post the election outcome for bank executives? Are bank IPO's finally coming back, and what does that mean for less liquid, smaller community banks. Investor positioning in bank stocks after the recent rally – are we still underweight? Biggest surprise on the horizon for banks in 2025; because nobody ever gets its 100% right.

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ. Day of Education – Session #7 Shhh...Talking Politics in a Speakeasy - Tip a glass to the upcoming election, and gain invaluable insights about how the banking industry should prepare for either outcome. Panelists: Trey Maust, Executive Chairman, Lewis & Clark Bancorp Pat Ryan, President & Chief Executive Officer, First Bank Mary Kissel, EVP and Senior Policy Advisor, Stephens, Inc Moderator:Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian

In the latest episode of Travillian Next, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, speaks with Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. From Atlantic City to Utah to NYC to DC to Vegas – you never know exactly where he will be, but one thing is for sure, Phil is fighting tirelessly in the trenches for his members. Travillian is proud to be a Strategic Partner with the AFC to help educate and advocate for responsible and sound public policy so innovation at small banks and fintechs will not be stifled. In this chat, Phil gives his insights on the vibe and trending topics of the many conferences he has attended and moderated over the past few months culminating with the much anticipated AFC Policy Summit on November 19th in Washington DC. The AFC Summit will bring together the top minds in government, technology & banking for an intimate and dynamic discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry heading into 2025.  

In this episode of the Travillian Next, host Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, speaks with Isaac Wheeler, Managing Director, Head of Balance Sheet Strategy at Derivative Path, about the current state of interest rate hedging strategies in the banking sector. At a time of heightened rate uncertainty, it's important to understand all the tools available to help reduce rate risk and free up human and financial capital to focus on growing the bank in a challenging competitive environment. This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Key points covered: Implications of recent interest rate cuts. Challenges posed by market uncertainty, particularly the forward curve. Importance of effective hedging solutions, especially for smaller banks. Emphasis on the need for banks to adapt their strategies in response to evolving market conditions. The significance of acknowledging the unpredictability of interest rates.

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Day of Education – Session #6 Double Down on Your Balance Sheet Strategy - Two of the foremost experts in community bank balance sheet management reveal their perspectives and strategies for navigating risk and staying financially sound in today's volatile market. Panelists:Scott Hildenbrand, Head of Depository Fixed Income, Piper Sandler Brian Leibfried, Head of Bank Insights, Performance Trust Capital Partners Moderators:Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian Isaac Wheeler - Managing Director, Head of Balance Sheet Strategy, Derivative Path

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Day of Education – Session #5 Go Back Three Spaces: Reflecting on the State of Embedded Finance - A discussion covering the risks, rewards and current opportunities for community banks pursuing an embedded finance strategy. This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Panelists: Robert Keil, Chief Fintech Officer, FinWise Bank Stanley Orszula, Partner, Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP Emily Reisig, SVP, Emprise Embedded Strategic Relationship Leader, Emprise Bank Moderators: Jeff Nowicki, Chief Banking Officer, Treasury Prime Keith Daly, Principal, Travillian

Join Michael Perito, Travillian's Head of Bank Strategy, and Catherine Mealor, Managing Director at KBW and on of their senior research analysts covering the regional banking sector, as they dissect investor's sentiment and expectations ahead of third-quarter bank earnings. KBW has recently published a couple differentiated research reports looking at how the bank industry could be impacted by lower short-term rates and earnings expectations for the third quarter. This episode digs deep on the current state of the bank market, including highlighting the biggest upside and risks to forward earnings growth. Catherine also explains the delicate balance with institutional investors' focus between near-term earnings performance and longer-term growth and importantly provides some of her top picks looking ahead to 2025.

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Day of Education - Session #4 Bank Empire: M&A and Capital Pursuits - Perspectives from industry experts on M&A and Capital considerations for banks and credit unions. This session is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Panelists: Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director of Investment Banking, Stephens, Inc. Jeff Cardone, Partner, Luse Gorman Jake Dalaya, Chief Strategy Officer, Capital Bank Moderators:Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Travillian Paul Davis, Founder, The Bank Slate

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by ⁠Travillian⁠ and ⁠Newcleus LLC⁠ at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ Day of Education - Session #3 Running with the High Rollers - Hearing from notable public and private bank investors in the space will help banks understand how to best story tell and develop strategies that are relevant and proven Panelists:Joe Fenech, Founder and CIO, GenOpp Capital Management Sundeep Rana, Managing Principal, Castle Creek Capital David Honold, Principal, Patriot Financial Partners Moderator:Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian

In the latest episode of Travillian Next, host Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, sits down with community bankers from North Carolina and Tennessee to discuss the profound impact of Hurricane Helene. The storm has left a trail of devastation, affecting countless families and businesses in its wake. At the time of this release, the death toll has reached over 230 individuals with hundreds more still unaccounted. Financial costs could total over $30 billion and the rebuilding of these communities will take years. Our guests, Lynn Johnson, Chief Operating Officer, EVP at North Carolina Banker's Association, Billy Carroll, President & CEO at SmartBank, and John Hunter, Senior Vice President and Tri-Cities Community President at Trio South Bank, share accounts of the challenges their communities are facing and the vital role local banks are playing in the recovery process. Summed up very well by Billy on the long road ahead for folks affected by Hurricane Helene, he said, “Don't forget about it….Stay plugged into what's going on in all of these communities…Look for opportunities to help.” While relief efforts are underway, there is still much to be done to help rebuild these communities. Your support can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disaster. By donating to trusted organizations, you can help provide essential resources and long-term aid. Here are four organizations you can support today: North Carolina Bankers Association Mountain Ways Tennessee Bankers Association Region Ahead

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ Day of Education - Session #1 Talent Management Monopoly - Join Compensation experts in a lively session on the lifeblood of every bank…its people. Recruiting, Topics will include retention, succession and compensation. This session is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Moderator: Paul Davis, Founder, The Bank Slate Panelists: Flynt Gallagher, President, Compensation Advisors, Newcleus Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech, Travillian Keith Daly, Principal, Travillian

The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ Day of Education - Session #2 All-In on Tech Efficiencies - Bankers reflect on how embracing technology can lead to efficiencies and increased revenue. Panelists: Jesse Honigberg, EVP, Products and Platforms, Customers Bank  Barb MacLean, SVP, Head of Technology Operations & Implementation, Coastal Community Bank  Courtney Sacchetti, EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Bankwell Financial Group, Inc    Moderators: Kim Snyder, Founder & CEO, KlariVis Phil Goldfeder, CEO, American Fintech Council

Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Ian Moloney, SVP and Head of Policy & Regulatory Affairs at the American FinTech Council (AFC), to dive into the evolving regulatory landscape for banks and fintechs. Together, they explore the potential impact of the upcoming election on financial regulations, including the differing approaches of the two major candidates. This conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Key topics include: The Dodd-Frank 1033 rule Third-party arrangements Broker deposits The role of AI oversight in the financial industry This conversation emphasizes the need for clear, tailored legislation and the critical role of talent development in risk management and compliance. Don't miss out on these timely insights—watch the episode today!

Join Michael Perito, Travillian's Head of Bank Strategy, and Brian Gardner, Chief Washington Strategist at Stifel Financial Corp., as they discuss the current state of the Presidential election, and what the eventual outcome could mean for the Banking industry. This conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. It has been an unusual summer of political headlines, but just how close does the Presidential race stand today? The conversation with Brian covers many topics, ranging from debate takeaways, specific elements of Trump's 2016 policies which turned out to be pro-bank, the FDIC brokered deposit proposal, and how Bank Lobbying efforts could be more effective over time. Brian gets specific as to why the Presidential race might be closer than some believe, while also providing Travillian listeners significant context on how the election might play out based on the prior two races (2016 and 2020).

Are you curious about how community banks are staying ahead in the fintech game? Chris Stanley and Christian Ruppe, co-chairs of the Innovation Committee for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA of Georgia), are at the forefront of this mission. They're driving tech adoption among local banks, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving financial landscape. From monthly fintech updates to partnerships with key organizations like Advanced Technology Department Center (ATDC) and the Georgia Fintech Academy, they're making sure no bank is left behind. Tune into this Travillian Next episode for an in-depth conversation where Chris and Christian discuss the vital role of innovation in community banking. The conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Hosted by: Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian

In his Travillian Next debut, Michael Perito, Travillian's Head of Bank Strategy, discusses second-quarter bank earnings with David Feaster, Senior Analyst of Raymond James. Bank stocks have rallied over the past couple of weeks, and optimism around NIM inflection and accelerating M&A pipelines seem to be building as we look towards the second half of 2024.    The conversation with David covers many topics, notably bank investor's expectations pre-quarter, commercial real estate credit trends and the impact forward rate expectations can have on earnings revisions and valuations. David notes that improving sentiment amongst bank investors could help sustain increased deal flow and capital raising activity, while he also provides his top two investment ideas currently.

In this Travillian Next episode, Chris Nichols, Director of Capital Markets at SouthState Bank highlights the crucial role of product managers in community banks. Chris points out that a lack of focus on product development and customer experience leads to underperformance. He stresses the need for hiring skilled individuals in marketing and finance and encourages banks to collaborate with core providers on new products and technologies. The discussion ends by emphasizing the importance of training and talent development for successful product management. Travillian Host: Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search Key Takeaways Banks that focus on product development and customer experience tend to outperform their competitors. Hiring individuals with proficiency in marketing and finance can be a step in the right direction for community banks. Working with core providers to explore new products and technologies can help community banks stay competitive. Training and developing talent in product management is crucial for driving success in community banks.

In Part 2, John Maxfield, the Founder of Maxfield on Banks and Senior Banking Specialist at The Motley Fool is joined by special guest, Jim Reuter, Board of Directors at FirstBank Colorado. The conversation features discussions on leadership, succession planning, banking performance, innovation, and talent development. Jim Reuter shares his journey from teller to CEO, emphasizing the importance of humility, integrity, and continuous learning in leadership. Key strategies for managing a bank, incorporating younger talent, and balancing innovation with conservative practices are explored. Additionally, the episode offers insights into the value of diverse experiences, the role of entertainment in education, and the impact of the pandemic on the banking industry. Get ready for a lively and informative conversation with these industry experts!

Join us for Part 1 of a Travillian Next special featuring John Maxfield, the Founder of Maxfield on Banks. Maxfield on Banks is a well-regarded substack where John shares his expertise to help others master the principles of exceptional banking. John brings a wealth of experience from his roles at Bank Director, the Wilmers Integrity Prize, and The Motley Fool, where he currently serves as the Senior Banking Specialist. The conversation explores the unique dynamics of the banking industry and the exceptional leaders within it, emphasizing the importance of resiliency, commitment to fiduciary duty, and the ability to learn and grow as key elements of effective leadership in banking. John dives into the importance of the ability to learn, grow, and be reprogrammed for leaders in the banking industry, noting that exceptional leaders often emerge from modest backgrounds or have experienced hardship early in life. …and that's not all! This is just the beginning—be sure to watch until the end to build anticipation for the exciting guest coming in part two next week! Hint: The mystery guest - a recently retired CEO - is an old friend of John's, has appeared on stage with him at AOBA, and just finished a stellar 37-year tenure at his bank.

Name That Bank! A show for bank geeks, made by bank geeks... Join us for an exclusive premiere of the Travillian-hosted game show—NAME! THAT! BANK! —featuring contestants Mandi Simpson, Partner at Crowe and Chris Mihok, Managing Director at KBW, who both have extensive networks with Southeastern US institutions, which is this week's focus region. How Does It Work? This game draws inspiration from the classic "Name That Tune," but with a twist: instead of tunes, it's all about naming banks! Brian Love, the charismatic host and Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, presents a series of clues to the contestants, pitting them against each other to guess the bank correctly. Expect plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and insightful commentary along the way. It's a short but fun episode that you won't want to miss! Can you guess all five banks?

In this Travillian Next episode, Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory at Travillian, and James Stevens, Partner and Co-lead of Financial Institutions Group at Troutman Pepper, discuss effective board governance and board evolution in the banking industry. They highlight the key functions of a board, such as establishing purpose and strategy, selecting and evaluating management, determining risk appetite, ensuring compliance, and serving as ambassadors for the bank. With the evolving landscape, the demands on board oversight have increased significantly, making board engagement in risk management and compliance crucial, especially in today's regulatory environment. They highlight how boards can be strategic assets for banks, offering valuable insights into enhancing board governance and dynamics in this Bank Board Insights series.

In this episode of Travillian Next, Zane Smith, Chief Banking Officer at American Bank, discusses the Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) industry and stresses banks' need for in-house expertise. He advocates for a shift towards banks assuming responsibility for risk and compliance, rather than relying on middleware providers. Smith also addresses talent needs in the BaaS space, emphasizing strategic planning for growth. He highlights the importance of banks innovating within safety and soundness frameworks, urging a return to basics. Travillian Host: Keith Daly, Head of Tech & Innovation Key Takeaways Banks need to shift their thinking and take responsibility for risk and compliance in the banking as a service (BaaS) industry. In-house expertise is crucial for banks in the BaaS space, from the board level to the analyst level. Banks should focus on strategy and planning, considering the impact on their balance sheet, capital, and infrastructure. It is important for banks to get back to basics and innovate within the framework of safety and soundness.

Attorney Michael Bell and Past Chairman of the Independent Bankers of America, Brad Bolton, have separately disagreed in the press about their views on credit union purchasing community banks. Bell has been a CU legal advisor on almost every deal announced since 2008. Bolton has been very critical of these transactions as the ICBA believes they have unfair advantages, namely around their tax exemption. In their very first appearance together, Brad and Mike engage in a congenial debate – which uncovered more agreements than disagreements. We cover hot topics related to these unique mergers, including: A deeper dive into the tax exemption “advantage” How states are taking their own stances CRA requirements Cybersecurity risks Publicizing deal costs

Keith Daly, Head of Tech and Innovation at Travillian, sits down with Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American FinTech Council (AFC), to delve into the challenges and opportunities within the banking & fintech industries. Phil has been in the top seat at AFC for a little over a year now and has traveled countless miles to many state houses to advocate for his members and their customers. Phil's passion for the job is visible and he loves the mission of the AFC. Topics Discussed - Regulation - Innovation and Financial Future - Compliance - Collaboration Between Fintechs and Community Banks

Join us for the latest episode of Travillian Next, where Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, dives into the hot topic of credit unions acquiring community banks. In this discussion, Brian sits down with Jeffrey Cardone, Partner and Attorney at Luse Gorman, PC, and Michael Bell, Partner at Honigman LLP, to explore the dynamics of these acquisitions. They shed light on the roles played by all parties involved and the hurdles they encounter along the way. But that's not all – they also zoom out to examine the broader landscape of mergers and acquisitions in the banking sector. From succession planning to regulatory challenges, they unpack the complexities driving M&A activity. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the future of banking mergers!

Join Ron Shevlin, Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors, and Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech at Travillian, as they navigate the critical challenge of talent acquisition in the banking industry. Highlighting the demand for fresh skills, especially in technology and innovation, amidst industry evolution, Ron underscores the vital role of strategic alignment and innovation in fostering growth. He also explores the intriguing possibility of Chief Information or Chief Innovation Officers ascending to CEO roles, offering a glimpse into the future of banking leadership.

When Lincoln Savings Bank and its Chairwoman, Sally Hollis, began their CEO search in the summer of 2023, they embarked on a journey to find someone who could blend the past, present, and future of the organization. With assistance from Travillian, Sean Willett was tapped to be the bank's new CEO.  In this candid conversation with Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, Sean and Sally reflect on: - How to preserve culture when adding a new Chief Executive Officer - The bank's Board dynamics, best practices on succession planning and executive search - How an "outsider" can be beneficial to a company's transformation - How to properly integrate and socialize a new executive onto a pre-existing team - Thoughts on Lincoln's continuing Banking-as-a-Service efforts

Moderators: Patrick Cooney, Lead GRC Search Consultant Travillian Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory at Travillian Konrad Alt, Co-Founder of Klaros Group Michele Alt, Co-Founder of Klaros Group Travillian Next is excited to announce our latest episode with Klaros Group's Co-Founders, Konrad and Michele Alt, for an in-depth discussion on the regulatory landscape anticipated for 2024 within banking, fintech, and their governing boards. With extensive expertise in the financial services sector as legal professionals, regulators, advisors, and more, Konrad and Michele bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Travillian hosts Patrick Cooney, Lead GRC Search Consultant, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory, come together with Konrad and Michele to delve into a range of topics within their expertise. These include future state regulatory awareness, talent considerations across all GRC functionalities, assessing Board composition, and understanding the dynamics of fintech-bank partnerships. Guests:

In the latest Travillian Next episode, Travillian hosts Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory, sat down with Ted Rosinus, Managing Director at Stephens for a thought-provoking discussion. Ted shares M&A insights from the intersection of investment banking and his banking background. Explore the latest deal trends, outlooks, M&A process, and the strategic utilization of M&A for a competitive edge. Gain valuable perspectives on talent strategies, succession planning, and PE trends through the M&A Lens. 3:56 Top Priorities for Banks in M&A 7:24 Outlook for Banking M&A in 2024 and Beyond 10:55 Incorporating Capital Market Capabilities in M&A 13:30 Impact of M&A on Talent Strategy 22:26 Private Equity Investments 28:45 Current Concerns of Community Bank Boards 30:58 Factors Affecting the Length of the M&A Process 33:45 Favorite Movie

Join us for a compelling discussion hosted by Indra Elangovan, Travillian's Head of Strategic Advisory, on bank board expertise, featuring a panel of experts sharing their perspectives on regulatory dynamics, risk management, cybersecurity, AI and offering invaluable advice to elevate your board to new heights during this transformative era in banking. Panelists - Julie Stackhouse, Former St. Louis Fed Regulator and Board Director at Simmons Bank - Caroline Stapleton, Partner at Orrick - Randy Lariar, Practice Director at Optiv - Peter Moenickheim, CRO at Evolve Bank & Trust Video Index 00:16 | Welcome to Board Insights Board Talent Conversation 01:16 |  Introduction of Panelists 03:47 | Bank Boards – Are They Risky Enough? 04:44 | Why Board Expertise is Crucial and What resonated about this article? 13:12 | In a Transformational Period Board Talent Gaps in Risk Management, Regulatory, Cybersecurity and IT Pose a Real Concern 28:55 | Sourcing Crucial Board Talent 34:23 | Former St. Louis Fed Regulator Perspective 34:45 | Potential liability for banks with talent gaps 40:32 | Cybersecurity and AI threats and Board talent 48:15 | CRO Perspective on Board Talent 49:32 | Conclusion

2023 was a tumultuous year in the banking industry to say the least. Unexpected events early in the year forced bank executives to change course and focus on foundational issues such as liquidity and balance sheet management. However, strategic plans for digital upgrades and technology innovation are still mission critical issues. In this Travillian Next episode, Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Paul Davis, Director of Market Intelligence at Strategic Resource Management and Founder/CEO of the Bank Slate LLC. Paul has decades of experience analyzing and studying trends in community banking and his insights are invaluable for banking and fintech executives across the country. Keith and Paul discuss the year that was and try to predict the coming challenges and opportunities for banks and their tech partners in 2024.

Introducing the latest episode of Travillian Next, featuring Dimitris Malisianos, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, and Simone Lagomarsino, President and CEO at Luther Burbank Savings Bank. Acquire invaluable perspectives into Simone's journey to leadership and explore the intricacies of Luther Burbank Savings Bank's Success story. At Luther Burbank Savings Bank, success is driven by people. The bank is committed to delivering a straightforward, human-centered banking experience through genuine relationships built on trust, respect, and personalized expertise. Introduction of Simone Lagomarsino 01:00 - 17:00 Culture: 17:00 - 20:32 Talent 21:27 - 31:49 Diversity and Inclusion: 30:54-35:44 California Banking 35:44 - 41:00 Insights on the current economic landscape and community banking: 41:00 - 50:05

Introducing the latest episode of Travillian Next, featuring Dimitris Malisianos, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, and Simone Lagomarsino, President and CEO at Luther Burbank Savings Bank. Acquire invaluable perspectives into Simone's journey to leadership and explore the intricacies of Luther Burbank Savings Bank's Success story. At Luther Burbank Savings Bank, success is driven by people. The bank is committed to delivering a straightforward, human-centered banking experience through genuine relationships built on trust, respect, and personalized expertise. Introduction of Simone Lagomarsino 01:00 - 17:00 Culture: 17:00 - 20:32 Talent 21:27 - 31:49 Diversity and Inclusion: 30:54-35:44 California Banking 35:44 - 41:00 Insights on the current economic landscape and community banking: 41:00 - 50:05

The saying goes, “if you can't measure it, you can't manage it.” This has been a major struggle for community banks over the years regarding tapping into the massive amount of customer data they have in their systems. In the digital age, it has become even more critical to have timely data and a deep understanding of your customers and business trends. Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search, sits down with Kim Snyder, CEO and Founder at KlariVis, a data platform that allows all team members, from the CEO to junior accountants, to dive deeply into the details and trends so they can spend more time managing strategy over data gathering. KlariVis was developed by a team of banking professionals, including Kim, who served as the CFO at a community bank in Virginia for more than a decade. This extensive experience provides KlariVis with an in-depth comprehension of the requirements and difficulties faced by banks. The platform is experiencing rapid growth, boasting a user base of over 100 banks. One of KlariVis's key strengths lies in its seamless integration with any core banking system, ensuring a straightforward implementation process. This integration facilitates the establishment of a single source of truth, updated every night to provide real-time information.

In our latest Travillian Next episode, Charles Potts, EVP and Chief Innovation Officer at ICBA, joined our host, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, , for a lively chat and some entertaining banter about tech's impact on banking efficiency. This was a fun one with tons of "bank geek" banter, talk of flying cars and the hard-hitting facts! Use the guide below to read more about the topics discussed or use the time stamps next to the header to jump to which part interests you most. (02:13) Technology's Role in Banking Efficiency Brian and Charles dove into the tech-driven evolution of banking operations. Charles stressed tech isn't about replacing bank talent but supercharging their skills. It's about changing the hiring game and upgrading operations. Brian shared examples of simple bots being used to automate tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more valuable work. Charles added that technology allows sales process to handle more volume, enabling officers to see more prospects and loans. Bottom line: Max out tech for max efficiency in banking ops. (10:34) Community Banks Embracing Technology Charles and Brian dug into tech's pandemic impact on banks. Charles highlighted a shift from manual labor to the adoption of RPA and machine learning, revolutionizing loan processing efficiency. Brian connected the dots, emphasizing the direct link between streamlined back-office operations and heightened frontline productivity. Their conversation featured success stories from Kimberly Kirk, Chief Operations Officer, Queensborough National Bank and Jay Tuli, President & Director, Leader Bank. (15:10) Innovation and Succession Planning in Banks Brian and Charles discussed the pivotal connection between innovation and succession planning in banks, expressing concerns about potential talent loss like Kim and Jake, fearing a hit to innovative vision. They emphasized the need for a clear leader successor and integrating innovation into the organization's culture beyond a specific department, recognizing the importance of attracting younger, innovation-minded talent. Charles illustrated this with an example of creatively combining existing products and services for improved outcomes. (22:35) Data's Rising Impact on Banking Charles emphasized the increasing importance of data in the banking industry, envisioning a future where hiring priorities will favor those proficient in data analysis and strategic alignment. He noted universities' response to this trend by expanding their data analytics curricula. In response to Brian's query about potential paths to the CEO role, Charles confirmed that positions like Chief Technology Officer or Chief Data Officer could indeed pave the way. Emphasizing the critical role of data in banking success, Charles acknowledged the challenges of data volume, speed, and precision. He advocated for enhanced data analytics tools and a stronger strategic approach to boost operational efficiency. Brian agreed, adding that future industry leaders will likely emerge from diverse backgrounds and skillsets.

The next exclusive Travillian Next episode features John Sotoodeh, Chief Operating Officer of Banc of California, in a one-on-one conversation with Travillian's Dimitris Malisianos of our Banking & Fintech team. We threw everything but the kitchen sink at John in this topical, far-reaching conversation covering topics such as: - Banc of California/PacWest Merger - Deposit Generation - Attracting Top Talent, - Importance of Bank Culture - M&A - Market Outlook - And More!  Video Index 00:20 | Introduction of John Sotoodeh 02:12 | Things You Oversee As A COO 03:01 | Banc of California and PacWest 04:09 | What Kind of Talent Banc of California Is Focused On 05:42|  Is De-prioritizing Lenders and Production Talent A Trend for Banc of California? 08:43 | How Is Banc of California Attracting Deposits? 11:11 | Best Practices to Avoid Deposit Generation Amidst High Rate Environment 13:12 | Talent Acquisition and Development 17:01 | Developing the Right Culture 19:36 | Are Banks Hiring Right Now? 22:07 | Q3 Earning and In What Direction Banks Are Headed In The Next 6-12 Months 24:22 | Economic Climate For Community Banks 26:47 | Production Lines and How They Will Evolve In The Coming years 28:48 | M&A Activity Trends We Should Look Out For 30:43 | Banking Space in California

Discover insights from industry expert Matt Resch, Founder of RT Partners, in our latest Travillian Next conversation with host Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian.   Answers to key banking questions, including: Talent: What does the Banking Executive of the Future look like? M&A Dynamics: What are the consolidation trends now and in the near future? Balance Sheet Strategies: How can banks think proactively to set themselves up for success?  Earnings Outlook: What are the early takeaways from Q3 bank performance?   Learn about the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the banking sector. Don't miss this engaging conversation!