LEAD WITH EMPATHY Ellingsen’s leadership style has always had a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. “Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to be around many diverse people from different backgrounds,” he said. “Understanding that some of us had more economic advantages and opportunities are crucial perspectives to consider as a leader, an employer and as a lender. It helps inform my decision-making and our work in leveling the playing field.” Ellingsen believes paying attention to underserved groups can help change lives and improve the greater community. “One of the most important things we can do is to try to provide access to minority businesses. That’s something Harris Simmons (Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Zions Bancorporation) is committed to and is taking a leadership role with,” he said. READY FOR THE CHALLENGE Ellingsen credits former CB&T CEO, David E. Blackford, for much of his insight into the business aspect of banking. Blackford, will transition to executive chairman, with day-to -day responsibility for the bank’s commercial real estate division. Ellingsen especially admired Blackford’s approach to the difficulties facing the bank during the financial crisis: “One of the biggest challenges we faced was the financial problems of the early 2000s. That was a scary time for financial institutions. David jumped in, addressing issues very proactively. And I think that kind of early recognition that this is serious and times were going to be tough, really helped to position the bank well.”
Ellingsen will continue to oversee the growth of the bank across the state and take a seat on the Zions Bancorporation executive committee. “I’m proud to be carrying on the incredible legacy David Blackford has built over the past 20 years,” says Ellingsen. “He has been a terrific leader and mentor and is one of the most talented bankers I’ve encountered. The credit culture he’s built at CB&T will be part of his legacy, and while his are large shoes to fill, we’ve built an incredible team at CB&T and I’m confident that our best years are still to come.” Ellingsen recently served as chairman of the Western Bankers Association and has been recognized as “CFO of the Year” and twice as “One of the Most Influential Business Leaders in San Diego” by the San Diego Business Journal.
• Born in Norway and lived in South America • Speaks Norwegian, Spanish and English • Received a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from James Madison University and an MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management • He resides in Solana Beach, CA with his wife and two daughters • In his free time, enjoys the beach, tennis, running and travel GET TO KNOW Eric Ellingsen
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IN YOUR CORNER ISSUE 7 | 2021
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