Plaza Bancorp named Rick Sowers president of both the company and Plaza Bank. Gene Galloway, who has served as president and CEO since 2009, will remain CEO of the company and bank.

As president, Sowers is responsible for Plaza Bank’s day-to-day operations, business strategy and executive team leadership, focusing on continued growth in the best interest of the bank’s shareholders, clients, employees and communities.

“As someone with a diverse background in the banking industry with proven success, Rick is perfectly positioned to help lead Plaza Bank,” Galloway said. “In his short time here, he has demonstrated strong management skills, delivering increased results for Plaza Bank and our clients. We will benefit immensely from his leadership as we embark on our next phase of growth.”

Sowers joined Plaza Bank in 2015 through the merger with Bank of Manhattan, where he served as president and chief operating officer. He was executive vice president and chief strategy officer at Plaza Bank before being appointed chief operating officer in July 2016.

Plaza Bank is a full service community bank serving the business and professional communities in Southern California and Las Vegas. The bank is committed to meeting the financial needs of small to middle market businesses.