California Bank of Commerce Names Michele Wirfel Chief Operating Officer

Rhea-AI Summary

California Bank of Commerce, N.A., a subsidiary of California BanCorp (Nasdaq: BCAL), has announced the promotion of Michele Wirfel to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective September 20, 2024. Wirfel succeeds Thomas Sa, who has left to pursue other opportunities. With over 30 years of banking experience, Wirfel previously served as Chief Banking Officer at California Bank of Commerce for six years prior to its recent merger with Bank of Southern California on July 31, 2024.

CEO Steven Shelton expressed confidence in Wirfel's appointment, citing her dedication, hard work, and leadership ability. Wirfel's extensive experience includes various management positions at California Bank of Commerce since its inception in 2007, as well as roles at Scott Valley Bank and Civicbank of Commerce. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance from California State University, Chico.

Positive

• Promotion of experienced executive Michele Wirfel to COO
• Successful completion of merger with Bank of Southern California on July 31, 2024

Negative

• Departure of previous COO Thomas Sa

San Diego, Calif., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- California Bank of Commerce, N.A. (the “Bank”), the wholly owned subsidiary of California BanCorp (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BCAL), announces the promotion of Michele Wirfel to Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer of the Company and Bank as of September 20, 2024. Wirfel succeeds Thomas Sa who has stepped down to pursue opportunities outside the organization. Wirfel will report to Chief Executive Officer Steven Shelton and serve out of the Bank’s Walnut Creek office.

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Michele Wirfel to Chief Operating Officer,” said Steven Shelton, Chief Executive Officer of California Bank of Commerce and California BanCorp. “She brings more than 30 years of banking experience to this position, and I have had the pleasure of working with her over many of those years, during which she has demonstrated her dedication, hard work, and leadership ability. She brings a wealth of banking experience to this position, and we are delighted to have her serve as our Chief Operating Officer. I also want to take this opportunity to thank Thomas Sa for the role he played in our recent merger and subsequent integration. We wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Wirfel served as Chief Banking Officer at California Bank of Commerce for six years prior to its merger with Bank of Southern California on July 31, 2024. She served in various other roles with the predecessor California Bank of Commerce since its inception in 2007, holding various management positions. Prior to 2007, Wirfel served four years as a Senior Vice President of Scott Valley Bank and 12 years in various management roles with Civicbank of Commerce, including Senior Vice President and Regional Manager.

Wirfel earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance from California State University, Chico.

About California BanCorp

California BanCorp (NASDAQ: BCAL) is a registered bank holding company headquartered in San Diego, California. California Bank of Commerce, N.A., a national banking association chartered under the laws of the United States (the “Bank”) and regulated by the Office of Comptroller of the Currency, is a wholly owned subsidiary of California BanCorp. Established in 2001 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the Bank offers a range of financial products and services to individuals, professionals, and small to medium-sized businesses through its 14 branch offices and four loan production offices serving Northern and Southern California. The Bank’s solutions-driven, relationship-based approach to banking provides accessibility to decision makers and enhances value through strong partnerships with its clients. Additional information is available at www.bankcbc.com.

INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
Kevin Mc Cabe
California Bank of Commerce, N.A.
kmccabe@bankcbc.com
818.637.7065

FAQ

Who is the new Chief Operating Officer of California Bank of Commerce (BCAL)?

Michele Wirfel has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of California Bank of Commerce, effective September 20, 2024.

When did California Bank of Commerce (BCAL) merge with Bank of Southern California?

California Bank of Commerce merged with Bank of Southern California on July 31, 2024.

What is Michele Wirfel's background in banking before joining California Bank of Commerce (BCAL)?

Michele Wirfel has over 30 years of banking experience, including roles at Scott Valley Bank and Civicbank of Commerce before joining California Bank of Commerce in 2007.

Who did Michele Wirfel replace as COO at California Bank of Commerce (BCAL)?

Michele Wirfel succeeded Thomas Sa, who stepped down as COO to pursue opportunities outside the organization.