Wells Fargo named Talena Hooper division executive to lead the bank’s commercial banking division in the Great Plains. Based in Kansas City, MO, Hooper now oversees commercial banking operations across Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.

Hooper began her banking career as an administrative assistant and steadily excelled to head teams of bankers who provide credit, treasury management, deposit and other products and services to commercial businesses, including not-for-profit and government agencies.

“Talena is an exceptional leader and has done a fantastic job engaging with and leading her team, building strong client relationships and moving the needle to help grow our business,” Laura Oberst, who heads the central region for Wells Fargo Commercial Banking, said.

For more than two decades, Hooper has held many roles, including market executive, regional vice president, business development officer and relationship manager.

“I learned the business from the ground up, and it began with my hard-working family roots. I’m passionate about the banking industry and committed to helping companies and their owners reach their financial goals,” Hooper said. “I also focus day in and day out on the career development of our hard-working and talented employees.”