Laurie Stewart Named One of American Banker’s “Most Powerful Women To Watch”

Rhea-AI Summary

Sound Community Bank (NASDAQ:SFBC) President and CEO Laurie Stewart has been named to American Banker's "Most Powerful Women to Watch" list for 2025. Under Stewart's 35-year leadership, the institution transformed from a $38 million credit union to a $1 billion publicly traded commercial bank.

Stewart's notable achievements include serving on the inaugural FDIC Community Bank Advisory Board, becoming the third woman to chair the American Bankers Association Board in its 150-year history, and serving on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco's Board. The recognition ceremony will take place at The Most Powerful Women in Banking Gala on October 23, 2025, in New York City.

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• Transformation from $38M credit union to $1B commercial bank under Stewart's leadership
• Recognition in prestigious American Banker's Most Powerful Women list demonstrates strong leadership

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SEATTLE, Sept. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Banker names Laurie Stewart, President and CEO of Sound Community Bank, as one of The Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2025.

Now celebrating its 23rd anniversary, American Banker’s The Most Powerful Women in Banking^TM program recognizes individuals and teams for demonstrating exceptional leadership skills, strong business performance, and a commitment to driving real outcomes for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the financial services industry. As part of this program, the Most Powerful Women to Watch rankings highlight influential leaders from top banks and financial institutions.  

“Laurie’s leadership continues to elevate Sound Community Bank and inspire the entire industry. Her vision, resilience, and deep commitment embody exactly what this recognition represents. We are proud to have Laurie at the helm – her influence extends well beyond our organization, shaping the future of community banking across the nation,” said Tyler Myers, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sound Community Bank and Sound Financial Bancorp.

The honorees will be recognized at The Most Powerful Women in Banking Gala, scheduled for October 23, 2025, at The Glasshouse in New York City.

Stewart recently celebrated 35 years with Sound Community Bank. In this span, Stewart led the organization's conversion from a $38 million dollar credit union to a $1 billion publicly traded commercial bank. Active in the industry, Stewart was one of 14 bankers selected to serve on the inaugural FDIC Community Bank Advisory Board. She is active in trade associations, having served two terms as Chair of the WBA and as Chair of the ABA’s flagship Governmental Affairs Committee. Stewart ascended to Chairperson of the American Bankers Association Board of Directors, becoming only the third woman to hold this role in nearly 150 years. She served two consecutive terms on the Board of Directors for the Seattle Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and is currently serving on the 12^th District Head Office Board. She also served as Chair of the National Arthritis Foundation Board of Directors and is a former Chair of the Woodland Park Zoo. Ms. Stewart is the current Secretary/Treasurer of the Jamestown/S’Klallam CDFI. She is the only non-tribal member of the CDFI Board.

About Sound Community Bank
Established in 1953, Sound Community Bank is a full-service bank providing personal and business banking services in communities across the greater Puget Sound region. The Seattle-based company operates banking offices in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Jefferson, and Clallam counties, as well as online at www.soundcb.com. Sound Community Bank is a subsidiary of Sound Financial Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: SFBC).

For Media inquiries, please contact:

Deena Rataezyk
Vice President, Director of Marketing & Communications
deena.rataezyk@soundcb.com
(206) 204-8169

FAQ

Who is Laurie Stewart and what is her role at Sound Community Bank (SFBC)?

Laurie Stewart is the President and CEO of Sound Community Bank, serving for 35 years and leading its transformation from a $38M credit union to a $1B public commercial bank.

What recognition did Sound Community Bank's CEO receive in 2025?

Laurie Stewart was named one of American Banker's Most Powerful Women to Watch in 2025, recognizing her exceptional leadership and business performance.

How long has Laurie Stewart been with Sound Community Bank (SFBC)?

Laurie Stewart has been with Sound Community Bank for 35 years, during which she led the institution's significant transformation and growth.

What major transformation did SFBC undergo under Laurie Stewart's leadership?

Under Stewart's leadership, Sound Community Bank transformed from a $38 million credit union into a $1 billion publicly traded commercial bank.

What significant industry positions has SFBC's CEO Laurie Stewart held?

Stewart served as the third female Chair of the American Bankers Association Board in 150 years, on the FDIC Community Bank Advisory Board, and on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco's Board.