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For Idaho business owners, finding a bank that understands their unique needs can be as challenging as finding one focused purely on Idaho communities. This customer-centric, all-Idaho approach is what drew Brian Gonzalez, Regional Business Banking Manager, to First Fed. With 27 years of banking experience, Brian knows success revolves around building strong relationships.

Brian serves the Treasure Valley market, while his counterpart, Ashley Tripp, covers the Magic Valley area. Together, they form part of First Federal Bank’s dedicated business banking team.

“We meet clients on their turf to understand all aspects of their business,” Brian explains. “This allows us to make informed decisions that benefit everyone.”

Comprehensive Business Services

First Fed has expanded beyond traditional commercial lending to offer a full range of business services. “Our team specializes in everything business-related minus loans, that’s where we partner closely with our lending team,” Brian notes. This specialization includes day-to-day operations like payables, receivables, and payroll, ensuring a seamless banking experience.

Personalized Attention and Responsiveness

Because business owners have an endless range of responsibilities, Brian and team recognize the value of having a single point of contact. “I’m your go-to for anything business banking-related,” Brian emphasizes. 

Having someone who knows your business means efficiencies are gained as well as issues are avoided. And if a problem does come up, it can be resolved quickly, even if it requires a team approach behind the scenes. “I’ve never seen a structure like First Fed, where everyone is actively collaborating and willing to act with urgency solely for the customer’s benefit,” Brian adds.

Tailored Solutions

Brian acts as a consultant, helping businesses optimize operations and safeguard assets. He focuses on improving performance, maximizing interest earned, and protecting deposits. “Our goal is to create value, making the transition to our bank an easy decision,” he notes.

Technology that Differentiates

In the competitive financial services landscape, First Fed leverages technology to further improve the customer experience and stand out amongst peers. “Our online platform is one of the easiest to navigate,” Brian points out. “Demonstrating its simplicity often seals the deal for new clients.”

Proactive Fraud Prevention

Security is another area where First Federal Bank excels. The bank proactively monitors suspicious activities and quickly contacts clients if anything unusual is detected. They also encourage businesses to implement internal controls and security policies. “We want to ensure our clients are protected both internally and externally,” Brian explains.

An Ongoing Investment

Beyond the initial commitment to understanding the nuances of a business, Brian conducts regular reviews to assess all aspects of a client’s banking needs and anticipate future requirements. 

Brian is also passionate about supporting the local business community. He has served on the advisory board for Junior Achievement of Idaho and continues to teach financial literacy in local schools. He’s also exploring opportunities to provide financial education to employees of local businesses. “Anytime I can help with financial literacy, I’m on board,” Brian says.

It’s another way for Brian and First Federal to give back and be part of a community they believe in. After all, they aren’t just serving Idaho businesses – they’re partnering in their success, one relationship at a time.

Learn more and get it touch with a Business Banker by visiting BankFirstFed.com/Business