Commercial Bank of California opened a new regional office in Santa Monica, CA.

This is the first new branch opening since the completion of its merger with National Bank of California earlier this year.

“Santa Monica is very a special place for Commercial Bank of California. Our connection with this community is very strong,” said Ash Patel, president and CEO of Irvine, CA-based CBC. “Not only do we have relationships here with local residents and small business owners that go back decades, but the trajectory of Santa Monica as a hub of innovation is uniquely aligned with our mission as a bank founded by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs.”

The new office in Santa Monica represents a homecoming for the branch’s leadership team, comprised of three experienced bankers who all have long histories in the city.

“It is truly a thrill to come home to Santa Monica,” said CBC Executive Vice President Richard Lawrence. “This community is like a family, and we look forward to providing our customers here with the best banking services possible.”

Lawrence was executive vice president and chief credit officer for Santa Monica Bank from 1982 to 1993. He is joined at the new branch by the CBC Santa Monica team, including Regional Vice President Rick Mateus and Vice President Kathy Irby.

Commercial Bank of California is a full-service bank serving the business and professional communities in Los Angeles and Orange counties.