John Raleigh had a choice to make in 2018 when the bank he was working at was acquired by a larger financial institution.

John was aware of Oregon Pacific Bank’s excellent reputation as a community bank that puts customers first, which piqued his interest. At the same time, OPB was looking at ways to help more businesses find financial success and banking solutions in Eugene.

“It was great timing,” he recalls.

John is now the Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for OPB, overseeing all lending operations in its five markets: Eugene, Roseburg, Medford, Florence and Coos Bay.

An Oregon State University graduate, John has called Lane County home since 1989. From time to time, he enjoys heading to Corvallis to attend football and baseball games. “I’m a proud Beaver in Duck country,” he says.

Over the years, John has been actively involved in community service projects, joining in efforts to support the Eugene Mission, United Way of Lane County, the Greenhill Humane Society and others.

About a year ago, John and his wife moved to the coast to pursue their dream of opening a bed and breakfast, working to restore a 1914 Sears Craftsman home on Bay Street in Old Town Florence.

John’s work home base is now OPB’s administrative offices in Florence. In addition to the quick commute, he appreciates the coastal lifestyle, walks on the beach, golfing and visiting the town’s shops and restaurants.

During the pandemic, he was impressed with the way his coastal town rallied around businesses to keep them open, strengthening the sense of community in Florence.

That kind of support seems to come naturally for those at OPB, he says. “We try to find the best solution for each customer’s situation – it’s all about helping the community succeed.”

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