Crestmark, the Commercial Finance Division of MetaBank, N.A., announced the additions of Craig Bassel and Randy Gartz. Their roles will be to assist with business growth by providing all commercial lending offerings.
Gartz is based in Texas and reports to Group Sales Manager Steve Hansen. Gartz brings extensive experience in growing middle-market banking relationships, most recently serving as Senior Vice President, Corporate Banking with BBVA. Previous work experience includes Mutual of Omaha Bank, where he served as Executive Vice President, Corporate and Commercial Market Manager; Whitney Bank, where he was Houston Market President; Green Bank, where he was Executive Vice President, C&I lending manager; and KBK Marquette/Financial, where he was Senior Vice President, Houston office Manager. Gartz earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Texas A&M University, and a degree in accounting from the University of Houston.
“Texas continues to be a leading source of talent for our business development team,” said Hansen. “We’re fortunate to add Randy to the Houston market while our skilled representative Shannon Stetson resumes her role in the Dallas market. This further builds out a remarkably strong customer service and knowledge-based platform. This team continues to generate the inventive solutions that position our clients to successfully meet their goals, even in today’s tough marketplace.”
Bassel is based in California and reports to Group Sales Manager James (Jim) Farrell. Bassel’s commercial finance experience spans more than 35 years with a predominate focus on providing asset-based lending solutions across multiple verticals. Bassel most recently served as Vice President, Business Development Officer for Wells Fargo Capital Finance, Commercial Services Group where he built brand recognition and new business portfolios throughout northern California. Prior history includes work as a Business Development Representative and Regional Sales Manager for a Southern California-based working capital company. He is a past president and membership chair for the Turnaround Management Association, Northern California Chapter, and remains an active board member today. Bassel earned bachelor’s degrees in economics and psychology from University of California Davis.
“Craig’s knowledge of commercial finance and attention to delivering solid lending solutions have been the force behind his consistent role as a top performer,” said Farrell. “We look forward to his directing that expertise and energy to the needs of Crestmark’s diverse client base.”