Erickson named chief growth officer at High Country Bank

SALIDA — Kevin Erickson has been named chief growth officer at Salida-based High Country Bank, which has a branch in Longmont, the bank announced Thursday.

Erickson, who has deep roots in the Boulder Valley, will work across the organization to help guide the bank’s strategic direction, support sustainable growth and strengthen its lending and credit capabilities.

“Kevin brings the experience and leadership to help us carry High Country Bank’s long history into its next chapter,” Niki Stotler, president and CEO of High Country Bank, said in a prepared statement. “He knows that growth and community banking aren’t competing priorities. They’re the same mission.”

Erickson has more than 25 years of banking experience, with a background spanning commercial banking, executive leadership, credit administration and strategic growth. He most recently was Colorado region president for MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. (Nasdaq: MOFG), and also served as market president for Independent Financial.

He also has served on the boards of several nonprofits including the YMCA of Boulder County, and has volunteered with Junior Achievement, EforAll, and Broomfield Youth Basketball.

“High Country Bank has a tremendous foundation, a strong reputation in its communities and an opportunity to build on that success,” Erickson said in the news release. “I’m excited to join an organization that values community banking and relationships while also recognizing the importance of evolving, strengthening its capabilities and positioning itself for the future. I’m looking forward to working alongside Niki and the entire team as we continue building a strong, disciplined and growth-oriented organization.”

Erickson earned a bachelor’s degree in finance at the University of North Dakota and a master’s in business administration at the University of Colorado Denver, then completed a graduate degree in banking at the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. He has also been actively involved in the banking industry, including leadership and service with the Colorado Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association, as well as service as a trustee of the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado.

“I’ve spent much of my career working with community banks, and I believe their ability to build relationships, understand local businesses, and make thoughtful decisions is what sets them apart,” Erickson said. “Growth and sound credit practices go hand in hand. My goal is to help bring those elements together in a way that benefits our employees, customers, shareholders  and the communities we serve.”

Founded in 1886, High Country Bank has a branch at 110 Main St., Suite 102, in Longmont, as well as locations in Salida, Buena Vista and Cañon City.

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