Umpqua Bank, a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation, announced its expansion into Arizona with its new SBA loan production office in Phoenix and the addition of Ward Hickey as vice president – Arizona, specializing in commercial real estate lending.
“We recognize the essential role small businesses play in creating thriving communities,” said Cort O’Haver, president of commercial banking at Umpqua. “Umpqua’s expansion into Arizona allows us to meet the financial needs of potential customers and deliver on our ongoing commitment to support small businesses.”
Arizona’s strong business environment and demand for small-business lending expertise make it a highly attractive market for Umpqua Bank. As a demonstrated market leader, Hickey has the lending background and expertise needed to help small businesses grow.
Hickey has more than 26 years of experience in commercial banking in Arizona. In 2012 and 2013, he received the Banker of the Year Award from Southwestern Business Financing Corp. To date, he has financed more than $700 million in commercial and SBA real estate loans throughout Arizona and other western states.
Hickey graduated from Arizona State University and is active in community and professional organizations in Phoenix. As vice president of SBA Lending – Arizona, Hickey will lead Umpqua SBA Lending Group from its new Phoenix office at 2375 E. Camelback Road, Suite 600.
Umpqua’s loan production office in Arizona represents a new market for Umpqua. This expansion moves beyond the bank’s current lending and retail banking in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, California and Northern Nevada. New commercial lending offices have also been added in Utah and Las Vegas, Nevada.
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