Easy Valley Advisory Board Provides Guidance and Support

12/09/22

Integrating into the East Valley with Purpose

Opening the Bank’s first branch in the East Valley was an exciting and fast-paced venture. Now the challenge begins to effectively introduce ourselves, build our brand recognition, and gain the trust of the East Valley community.

To do so, we have partnered with a group of highly successful business professionals and longtime East Valley residents that make up the Bank’s East Valley Advisory Board. The board is comprised of four members under the direction of veteran banker Neil Barna, who chairs the group. Each member brings a valuable set of skills and talents to help RBAZ effectively integrate into the community.

It’s our honor to introduce our distinguished East Valley Advisory Board Members:

Chairman Neil Barna

Neil has deep ties to the East Valley having lived and worked in the community for decades. “Since moving to Mesa in 1981, I have been East Valley based,” says Neil. “I know my way around and am very excited to help the Bank expand its presence in the community. This is a tremendous opportunity. I believe the Bank can build a real niche here and differentiate itself as one of the few independent banks remaining in Arizona,” says Neil. Neil brings a tremendous amount of experience and energy to the board. His distinguished career in banking spans more than 46 years, and we look forward to benefiting from his knowledge and enthusiasm.

Dave Liniger

Following a highly successful career as the owner of Kachina Mayflower Moving company, Dave took the opportunity for early retirement. But retirement just didn’t work out. So Dave launched his second career in residential and commercial real estate. Dave and his wife live in The Islands in Gilbert, neighbors to the Bank’s new Gilbert branch. “I love being on the board,” says Dave. “I think this is a great opportunity for the Bank to expand into The Islands and the East Valley overall. I look forward to helping the bank do just that.” Dave’s ties to the Gilbert community as well as his reputation and relationships with local businesses are valuable assets he brings to the board and the Bank.

Joan Krueger

Joan loves her Gilbert community and has dedicated many years to ensuring its rapid growth is managed with careful planning. Moving to Gilbert in 1997, she became instantly involved by serving on the Gilbert planning commission for six years, the Town Council for four years, and the chamber for 15 years. “I was thrilled when Neil called and asked me to join the board,” says Joan. “Having served on the Planning Commission and Town Council, I understand the community. And now as a commercial real estate broker serving the East Valley, I believe I can add a lot of value to the Bank’s growth efforts.” Joan’s enthusiasm for serving is infectious and we know can expect great things. “I believe I don’t deserve the ‘ask’ unless I give the best I can give.”

David Hrizak

A big supporter of community banking, David is excited to support the bank’s entry into Gilbert and the East Valley. “If it weren’t for community banks, I wouldn’t be in business today,” says David. “I believe local banks are the heartbeat of small businesses. I know I wouldn’t have had the success in business that I enjoy without the support of community banks over the years.” David has lived in the East Valley for a decade and is continuing his career in commercial real estate development. His ardent support of RBAZ and the value local banking brings to communities and businesses, along with his ties and connections to the East Valley will be a great asset for the Bank’s strategic growth objectives.