Chris Nicholl
Senior Community Bank Division Leader, SVP
Vectra Bank Colorado
How did you get started in the banking industry?
I originally worked at a non-bank lender. I interviewed at a bank when my co-worker turned down their offer. That was 29 years ago, and I feel as if I have had several different careers working in banking. I have been in retail banking, private banking, treasury management and business banking, and now I oversee several markets and a credit analysis team.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is helping people reach their goals and their next steps. For some clients, it is the acquisition of equipment or a building to grow their company. For other clients, it is a deep dive into their financial situation and working on a plan with them to reach whatever the next steps are: debt consolidation, dream vacation, new car, new house … It is very satisfying to hear the stories from the clients and be a small part in the success of their planning
What is the most important thing you’ve learned from a career in banking?
I think the most important thing I have learned from banking is the importance of leveraging your team and having a great network. We all work in several different teams on a daily basis. Knowing the strengths of your teams, where you need help and who to ask in your organization will help your client and team in the most efficient way possible. Growing your network inside and outside of your organization will give you access to different points of view and various ways to solve problems, and it helps me feel I have a larger community.
Who is one of the most influential figures in your life?
My grandfather Barry McCallan. Pops, as the family named him, moved his wife and seven children to Denver to start a company with his next-door neighbor. I believe his entrepreneurship is what draws me most to working with clients and helping them achieve their dreams.
Lauren Kvamme
Vice President Treasury Management
MidWestOne Bank
How did you get started in the banking industry?
I never expected to end up in banking. While working as a waitress, one of my customers — a branch manager — saw something in me and encouraged me to apply. I got hired at a bank that’s no longer in business, where I received three months of training. Shortly after, I helped open 15 new branches in Denver in one day. That experience taught me invaluable lessons about sales, entrepreneurship and how to navigate chaotic, high-pressure environments.
What makes your bank unique?
MidWestOne Bank’s uniqueness lies in its history and mission. Founded in 1934 by “Grandpa” Ben Summerwill, the bank was built on a foundation of trust and community. That legacy continues today through the bank’s mission: “Take care of our customers and those who should be.” This guiding principle shapes everything we do, ensuring that our customers are always the top priority. In 2024, MidWestOne strengthened its presence in Denver by acquiring Denver Bankshares, the parent company of the Bank of Denver. This move allowed us to offer even more personalized services to the Denver community, staying true to our commitment to exceptional service.
What topic could you give a 20-minute presentation on without any preparation?
If I had to give a 20-minute presentation with no prep, it would be on fraud prevention. Fraudsters are constantly getting more creative, and their only job is to exploit businesses and steal money. Meanwhile, business owners juggle so many other responsibilities. Helping them protect their assets and focus on growth is something I’m deeply passionate about. I believe banks should equip their clients with the knowledge and tools to stay ahead of fraudsters.
Tell us something about yourself most people don’t know.
I once worked as a houseboat instructor at Lake Powell. It’s funny because I had no boating experience at the time! I was hired despite it and quickly learned to navigate 50-foot boats. The experience taught me a lot about confidence, adaptability and handling the unexpected.
Mike Steppenbacker
Colorado Market President
Kirkpatrick Bank
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The greatest joy I find in my work is helping business owners and investors achieve their goals. It’s not just about the final payout when a business or real estate property is sold; it’s about the entire journey. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals who were approaching retirement or reaching a significant financial milestone, and being part of the process that helped them get there is incredibly fulfilling. Celebrating those moments with my clients is the most rewarding aspect of my job — it never loses its impact, no matter how many times I experience it.
One of the most touching aspects of my career is hearing people say, “I couldn’t have done this without your partnership.” Knowing that I’ve played a role in their success is a wonderful feeling. I love helping people navigate the path from Point A to Point B, and seeing their hard work pay off is deeply gratifying.
What are you most proud of in your professional life?
One of my greatest professional achievements was building a strong, cohesive team. At my previous financial institution, I had the opportunity to assemble an incredible group of individuals who genuinely enjoyed working together. I believe I have a talent for recognizing people with the right combination of humility, work ethic and a genuine desire to serve and support each other.
As a former athlete, I’ve always appreciated the importance of teamwork. There’s something special about a group coming together, setting aside egos and working hard toward a shared goal. The team I built in my last job was truly exceptional, and I still hold deep admiration and appreciation for the people I worked with.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career in banking?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of using leverage wisely. Leverage can be a powerful tool when managed responsibly, but it must be utilized with caution. I’ve seen individuals overextend themselves and end up in challenging situations, and I’ve also seen those who were too hesitant and missed out on great opportunities.
As bankers, we have the ability to help people make informed financial decisions, but we also have a responsibility to ensure they are not placed in precarious positions. Striking the right balance with leverage can make a significant difference in helping customers realize financial success.
Who has been the most influential figure in your life?
I don’t believe there is just one person who has shaped my life. Instead, I often encourage young professionals to look around them — at colleagues, mentors, family members — and learn from the best qualities each person has to offer. That’s the approach I’ve taken in my own life.
For example, I admire one person’s work ethic, another’s generosity and someone else’s leadership skills. Rather than placing the weight of influence on a single individual, I believe in drawing inspiration from multiple sources. I also remind young people that by embodying these qualities, we can one day become a source of inspiration for someone else.
