For Bank of Bellevue, 2007 was a year for partnering with spheres of influence to generate new business opportunities and with nonprofit organizations to offer hope to local families in need.
On the business development front, the bank partnered with accountants and consultants to host seminars for business clients and prospects. One seminar for medical practitioners, held jointly with a local CPA firm, covered growth strategies and succession planning. We also hosted two seminars with a local consultant who detailed the principles for sustaining profitable growth for small businesses.
| We launched our transition from a de novo financial institution into a high performing business bank. |
During 2007, we successfully rolled out our new remote deposit product that allows us to offer convenient deposit services to business clients, regardless of their location. This has enabled us to serve clients who need to be closer to the bank and has resulted in significant new demand deposits.
Economic indicators in our area remain strong, maintaining Bellevue’s stature as an idyllic place to live and work. Commercial development activity continues to fuel the growth of quality jobs. In the meantime, residential real estate is holding its
value because of state and local growth management policies that protect our natural resources.
Illustrating our community commitment, the bank partnered with Hopelink, a local nonprofit organization serving families in need, for a “Creating Hope Campaign” during the holiday season. The bank was a collection point for donations of food, baby items and hygiene products. The campaign ended with a “Day of Hope” at the bank as our staff served refreshments to thank customers, board members and supporters for their generous contributions.
We are creating brand awareness through our participation in prominent community projects and business organizations. One of the many ways our team is dedicated to the betterment of our community is reflected in the high percentage of our employees who made generous contributions during the annual United Way campaign. In 2007, I was honored to represent our bank as a newly-elected member of the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce board of directors.
The past year was productive for Bank of Bellevue as it launched our transition from a de novo financial institution into a high–performing business bank.
— Andrew P. Barlass, President & CEO