Bankers make moves

Cook joins National Bank of California

Sheila Cook, a former president of the La Cañada Flintridge Chamber of Commerce who most recently headed the Gilmore Bank branch in La Cañada, has joined National Bank of California as regional vice president of the San Gabriel Valley office in Glendale.

“We’re very pleased to welcome an experienced and dedicated banking professional like Sheila who exemplifies the high level of service and business knowledge that we strive to deliver to each and every customer,” said Barry W. Uzel, president and chief executive of National Bank of California.

Cook, a veteran banker, brings more than 30 years of local banking experience and community involvement to her new position. She was senior vice president and regional manager for Gilmore Bank and, prior to that, vice president and manager of Citizens Business Bank.

“I’m delighted to join a Bank that treats people with personal attention and care,” said Cook. “I’m also excited about the growth opportunities for our San Gabriel Valley Regional Office, which is staffed by many long-term employees. I’m looking forward to contributing my time and talents to local community organizations and helping our area’s business community to thrive.”

Cook is active in the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, Pasadena Symphony/Pasadena Pops and other organizations. She resides with her family in Shadow Hills.

Gilmore Bank promotes Morales

Gilmore Bank has promoted Rolando Morales to vice president and branch manager of the organization’s banking office in La Cañada. Morales has been with Gilmore Bank for more than two years.

Morales has a 15-year bank management career in Southern California. Prior to joining Gilmore Bank, Morales worked four years for Bank of the West in Pasadena.

“Rolando has played a huge role in facilitating Gilmore’s growth in La Cañada,” said Doug Spencer, Gilmore Bank’s president and chief executive. “He is a natural leader and inspires the same level of energy and dedication among fellow employees.”

Morales received his associate’s degree from Pasadena City College and graduated from University of Phoenix with a bachelor’s degree in business management. He is a Los Angeles native and a member of both the La Cañada Kiwanis Club and La Cañada Flintridge Chamber of Commerce. He’s a youth soccer coach and board member for American Youth Soccer Organization. He also volunteers for the Banking on our Future program of Operation Hope, a non-profit organization that educates children and young adults.