While some aspects of banking are in continual flux, at least one quality remains constant, says James Atwood, that being the relationships he fosters with clients.

As an Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer, James works to ensure that Oregon Pacific Bank stays on top of regulatory and compliance requirements while overseeing lending and the loan application process.

“I began my banking career 18 years ago, and there are clients in our portfolio that I remember from way back then,” James says. “It’s satisfying to see the evolution, and in some cases the transition to the next generation as business owners.”

James joined OPB in 2020 after serving in various positions with other local and regional banks. He’s glad to be at OPB now, working for a true community bank.

“The piece I enjoy the most is working with our lenders to create structures for specific customer needs,” he says. “I like helping to put our bank and borrowers in a position to succeed.”

James has been in Eugene since 1996, but he lived in many different places growing up while his father was in the Air Force. He attended Lane Community College and Oregon State University, which recruited him to play baseball. He pitched for the Beavers for a year, an experience that he fondly remembers. “It was great being a D1 athlete,” he says.

In his off-time, James stays active, plays golf and goes RVing with his family. He enjoys watching Beaver games, as well as taking his children to watch some Duck women’s soccer games. His children play soccer and baseball, and he volunteers to help their teams. He has served on the board of the Eugene Family YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Eugene Challengers.

James has also stepped in as a guest lecturer for upper-level banking classes at the University of Oregon. He calls it a rewarding experience and a chance to reflect on his banking career while helping the next generation.

“It’s always good to give back,” he says. “I remember sitting at the other side of the table. It was fun when instructors brought in people with real life experience, so it’s not as abstract. I go in there, talk about my experiences, my philosophy and using what they learn in the real world. It’s fun.”

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