Derek Thornton is promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Derek joined Peoples Bank in 2013 with expertise in finance and accounting and has held leadership roles in retail, small business, and credit. He was previously Senior Vice President, Director of Finance and Accounting.

Derek serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors at Lydia Place and is also on the Board of Directors of the Bellingham Distance Project, a competitive running team. Derek was awarded the Peoples Bank Chairman’s Award for leadership in 2016 for his commitment to integrity, honesty, and respect. He is a graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School and holds bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Political Science and a master’s degree in Business Administration from Western Washington University.

Lisa and Derek report to Peoples Bank Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Charles LeCocq. “Lisa and Derek have demonstrated outstanding leadership, character, and financial acumen during their tenure at Peoples Bank,” says LeCocq. “I am grateful for their many contributions and look forward to their continued success leading our bank operations forward.”

Bellingham Commercial Banking Group Promotions

Jonathan Ensch

Jonathan Ensch is promoted to Senior Vice President, Commercial Market Leader. Jon joined Peoples Bank in April 2019 and has been a successful commercial banker in the local market for the past 15 years. Jon leads a team of commercial bankers focused on managing the diverse and often complex banking needs of the local business community.

“I truly value the opportunity to work for a community bank that is locally owned and headquartered in Whatcom County,” said Jon. “This enables us to build strong, individualized relationships with our customers and play a role in their long-term success.”

Jon serves on the boards of the American Red Cross and the Whatcom Business Alliance. He received a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics from the University of Alaska.

Scott Louia

Scott Louia is promoted to Vice President, Commercial Banking Officer. Scott joined Peoples Bank in February 2017 and has 15 years of experience in commercial banking, including as a Credit Analyst, Small Business Loan Officer, and Special Credits Officer. He was previously responsible for Small Business Lending.

“I enjoy working with our business customers and being a part of their long-term success,” said Scott. “We always want our customers to feel valued and to know that we have the financial tools and expertise to guide them throughout the growth of their business.” Read more...

 

PRESS

Puget Sound Business Journal

Lisa Hefter was promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative and Risk Officer at Peoples Bank from her previous role as Chief Financial Officer. Read More...

Puget Sound Business Journal

Derek Thornton was promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Peoples Bank. Derek has held leadership roles in retail, small business, and credit and was previously Senior Vice President, Director of Finance and Accounting. Read More...

Bellingham Chamber of Commerce

Peoples Bank announces changes to its executive leadership team, as well as promotions at the Bellingham Commercial Banking Group. Read More...

ABL Advisor

Peoples Bank Appoints CFO, EVP and Commercial Banking Group Execs Read More...