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Boise, ID, USA

James E.

Navigating Complex Real Estate Markets with Precision and Expertise

Leveraging nearly three decades of cross-disciplinary leadership in banking and capital markets, I have cultivated a keen expertise in Commercial Real Estate Capital, Commercial Banking, structured debt, asset recovery, and more, in order to excel as a solutions-driven banking executive. My success stems from bridging skill gaps and enhancing leadership teams, making me a trusted advisor in a relationship-driven business. I thrive on internal collaboration within complex projects and executing strategies in dynamic environments, all while embracing technology and AI advancements. My comprehensive approach ensures I deliver tailored solutions, focusing on achieving financial results and building enduring stakeholder relationships.

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James E.

Work

Lead the evaluation and implementation team of a bankwide initiative to replace the loan origination system with nCino. This included system integration, training, vendor management and policy and compliance oversight. As the Executive sponsor for the project I provided weekly reports tonight executive management team and quarterly reports to our board of directors.

Experience

Jan 2025 — Present
WaFd Bank

WaFd Bank

Regional Director - Commercial Real Estate Bank

WaFd Bank is a national bank offering simple, straightforward banking solutions to build healthy, thriving communities since 1917.

  • Led the development and implementation of loan and deposit growth strategies, significantly increasing regional market share.
  • Pioneered the bank's securitization platform, contributing to enhanced process efficiency and risk management.
  • Spearheaded the adoption of technology solutions that improved loan processing efficiency and customer service.
  • Oversaw the Taxable Variable Rate Demand Bond (TVRDB) program, optimizing the bank's investment strategies.
Oct 2019 — Jan 2025
WaFd Bank

WaFd Bank

Chief Commercial Banking Officer

  • Implemented commercial banking strategies that drove significant revenue growth through innovative product offerings.
  • Collaborated with the CCO to refine lending strategies, resulting in optimized credit standards and risk management.
  • Led technology integration projects, enhancing commercial banking operations and client experience through digital platforms.
  • Oversaw the successful launch of new Treasury Management and CRM systems, improving efficiency and customer engagement.
Mar 2019 — Jan 2025
WaFd Bank

WaFd Bank

Commercial Banking Group Manager

  • Transitioned smoothly from divisional to group management, leading the commercial bank with a focus on strategic growth.
  • Developed detailed commercial lending strategies that aligned with the bank's overall financial goals.
  • Played a key role in expanding the client base through targeted marketing and relationship management.
Sep 2015 — Jan 2025
WaFd Bank

WaFd Bank

Senior Vice President - Division Manager - Commercial Banking Group

  • Increased loan production by over 300% through strategic business development in the Intermountain West region.
  • Enhanced portfolio management and loan servicing processes, improving efficiency and client satisfaction.
  • Mentored and developed a high-performing team of producers and analysts, fostering long-term success.
May 2015 — Sep 2015
A10 Capital

A10 Capital

Executive Vice President

A10 Capital is a nationwide lender specializing in bridge and permanent financing for commercial real estate through flexible capital solutions.

Feb 2011 — May 2015
KeyBank Real Estate Capital

KeyBank Real Estate Capital

SVP - Senior Banker - Northwest Region - KeyBank Real Estate Capital

KeyBank is one of the largest banks in the U.S., offering a wide range of financial services including commercial banking and investment management.

  • Coordinated the provision of financial solutions for clients across multiple states, enhancing client satisfaction and retention.
  • Achieved top national performance in new business origination by securing over $250MM in new loans annually.
  • Managed complex client portfolios, focusing on strategic interest rate risk mitigation and loan syndications.
  • Led collaborative efforts with Community Bank partners, strengthening regional market presence and relationships.
Sep 2007 — Feb 2011
KeyBank Real Estate Capital

KeyBank Real Estate Capital

Vice President - Asset Recovery Group - West

  • Managed over $300MM in troubled loans, successfully reducing KeyBank's risk exposure through strategic restructurings.
  • Executed note sales and dispositions, achieving non-performing loan reduction goals.
  • Collaborated extensively with legal teams to re-document loans, enhancing the bank's protection and recovery rights.
Mar 2003 — Sep 2007
KeyBank Real Estate Capital

KeyBank Real Estate Capital

Vice President - Sr. Relationship Manager - Income Property Group - West

  • Managed a complex $500MM portfolio across diverse loan types, improving portfolio performance and risk management.
  • Played a key role in the successful resolution of complex, troubled loans within production offices.
  • Cross-sold diverse banking products, increasing wallet-share and client retention through strong relationship management.
  • Contributed to internal projects aimed at enhancing risk management and operational efficiencies.
Jan 2002 — Jan 2003
Ziegler

Ziegler

Associate Director

Ziegler is an investment bank specializing in municipal, healthcare, and senior living financing solutions, delivering strategic advisory and capital raising services.

  • Underwrote bond transactions for senior housing projects, facilitating the development of essential community infrastructure.
  • Conducted comprehensive financial analyses and credit assessments to support successful bond issues.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to strategize and manage underwriting processes efficiently.
Jan 1999 — Jan 2002
Koch Industries

Koch Industries

Underwriting Manager

Koch Industries operates a wide array of businesses including manufacturing, trading, and investments, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

  • Managed a $1 billion municipal bond portfolio with a focus on maximizing returns and minimizing risk.
  • Performed credit analysis and assigned shadow ratings, enhancing creditworthiness evaluations for municipal clients.
  • Developed and approved financing structures, contributing to successful lease purchase finance and master lease agreements.