Redefining Banking: How Mission Valley Bank's Board Leads with Vision, Values and Purpose

BURBANK, Calif., May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- It does not take vision to run a bank. It takes vision to redefine one. While many financial institutions are content to operate within the boundaries of tradition, today's leaders ask how those boundaries can be expanded—and who benefits when they are. At Mission Valley Bank, redefining banking starts at the top, with a Board of Directors that turns values into action and growth into community impact. 

This is not about following industry norms; this board is looking to reshape what a community business bank can be—where innovation, inclusion, and client experience drive every decision, and where success is measured not only in numbers, but in the businesses improved along the way.

Since its founding, in July 2001, Mission Valley Bank has embraced a philosophy many institutions left behind: that banking is—and always will be—personal. As the Bank sets its sights on 2030, navigating an evolving financial landscape marked by digital transformation, economic shifts, and heightened client expectations, its Board continues to lead with purpose, ensuring that community banking remains at the core of innovation and growth.

"Our Board is actively engaged in making sure every decision reflects who we are and who we serve," says Tamara Gurney, President and CEO of Mission Valley Bank. "We are building a legacy where growth does not come at the expense of relationships—it is powered by them."

In many organizations, culture is framed as an internal mantra. At Mission Valley Bank, it is a leadership mandate. Every member of the Board brings more than financial and business acumen—they bring a shared belief in the Bank's role as the means for local economic success. Whether it is supporting small businesses, advancing financial literacy through its Community Development Financial Institution designation and their partnership with ENRICH (a comprehensive and holistic approach to financial wellness powered by an AI-driven online platform), or ensuring economic inclusion for low-to-medium sized businesses, the Board's focus is clear: growth with intention.

This leadership philosophy has driven bold moves—branch expansions into Burbank and soon in Arcadia, investments in digital innovation, and forward-thinking strategies designed to strengthen net core deposits while enhancing the client experience.

"Community banking is about staying connected," explains John Parker, Board Chair. "As we expand and innovate, our responsibility is to ensure that every new initiative aligns with the values that define Mission Valley Bank. Vision without culture is empty—and culture without vision stands still. We are committed to both."

While some financial institutions chase trends, Mission Valley Bank's Board takes a different approach—collaborative innovation. By leveraging diverse expertise across team channels, the Board believes in an environment where technology, client service, and community impact intersect. Recent digital transformation projects are a direct reflection of this mindset, enhancing operational efficiency without sacrificing the high-touch client experience that sets the Bank apart.

At the same time, the Board remains deeply engaged in Mission Valley Bank's Community Development Financial Institution mission, supporting programs like the Community Development & Reinvestment Ambassador Program and partnerships that promote financial literacy for their clients.

This is community banking, redefined—not as a nostalgic concept, but as a modern model for sustainable success. Mission Valley Bank's Board of Directors proves that when leadership is anchored in values, collaboration, and a clear vision, growth is not only possible—it's purposeful.

Board Members: Tamara Gurney (President, CEO & Director), John Parker (Board Chair), Jerold Neuman ESQ, Kathleen Kellogg, Eric Sato, John Miller and Ara Oghoorian CFA, CFP, CPA.

About Mission Valley Bank
Mission Valley Bank is a full-service, community-focused business bank dedicated to building lasting relationships and delivering financial solutions that support the growth of local businesses and individuals. The Bank is known for its deep local relationships, personalized service, and commitment to building stronger communities through tailored financial solutions. Member FDIC.

To learn more, visit www.missionvalleybank.com; https://missionvalleybank.enrich.org/

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SOURCE Mission Valley Bank