It takes more than good numbers to excel in the financial services sector. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the the individuals and institutions earning Excellence in Banking recognition for 2025.
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For a bank or credit union to excel in its industry, it must focus on delivering exceptional customer service, maintain financial stability, and demonstrate an ability to adapt to market changes. Building a solid relationship with customers is essential, as it fosters trust and loyalty. Providing personalized experiences, understanding customer needs, and offering tailored financial solutions helps create a competitive advantage. Excellence in customer service involves efficient problem resolution, accessibility, and a seamless user experience across all channels, including digital and in-branch services.
Az Business will be highlighting one Excellence in Banking category each day. Here are the individuals and institutions earning recognition as financial services leaders of the year for 2025.
Financial services leaders of the year for 2025
Robert Blendu, founding member, Scottsdale, Community Bank
Blendu is a founding member of Scottsdale Community Bank. He is also executive vice president of Morgan Stanley in Peoria, past elected member of the Arizona House of Representatives as well as a past elected senator for the State of Arizona. Blendu’s professionalism in all that he has been associated also encompasses kindness and understanding the needs of each person he encounters in business and his personal life.
Tim Bruckner, chief banking officer, regional banking, Western Alliance Bank
When Bruckner took on the newly created role in January 2024, after five-plus years as the bank’s chief credit officer, Western Alliance Bank CEO Ken Vecchione noted: “Tim has been instrumental in maintaining our industry-leading credit quality …. In his new role, he will co-lead our strategy to be the nation’s leading commercial bank centered on our proven diversified business model, deep sector expertise and strong client relationships.”
Reine Hamilton, senior vice president and commercial banking manager, Bell Bank
Hamilton oversees growth and development of Bell’s specialty markets group, which offers banking services encompassing nonprofit organizations, government entities, and professional groups with a focus on medical, legal and CPA firms, as well as property management and complex deposit structured accounts. She was one of Az Business’ Most Influential Women in Arizona in 2022.
Christine Nowaczyk, senior vice president and private wealth advisor, U.S. Bank
As a private wealth advisor, Nowaczyk is responsible for providing comprehensive wealth management strategies tailored to her clients’ specific needs. These strategies encompass investment management, private banking, trust and estate services and wealth planning. She takes the time to understand her clients’ unique needs and directs teams of specialists to provide services that help her clients work toward their goals.
Elizabeth M. Shabaker, co-CEO, Versant Capital Management
Shabaker is co-owner and co-CEO of Versant Capital Management, a multi-family office that focuses on wealth management, investments, family governance, next-generation financial education, estate planning, tax planning and philanthropy. She is actively involved in many community initiatives, serving on the Dean’s Council at the W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU and as Treasurer of the Board of Directors for Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona.
