Meet Our Commercial Lending Team
We have over 30 Commercial Lenders located throughout Southeast Louisiana and Florida.
Commercial Lending Team
Brian Behlar
VP, Market Manager
Brian Behlar
- BrianBehlar@gulfbank.com
- 504-565-3661
- NMLS #: 466098
Brian started his lending career in 1978 in Consumer Finance at Bud Finance Company after graduating from the University of New Orleans and worked there for 20 years. In 1998 Brian started in commercial lending working for Metro Bank before coming to Gulf Coast Bank & Trust as a Market Manager/Commercial Lender.
Brian is currently a Board member of “Visit Kenner” and has served on the following community organizations: International Credit Association Southeast Region, Director, Credit Association of Greater New Orleans, President, Kenner North Kiwanis, Member, East Jefferson YMCA, Board, Jefferson Alliance, President, Crimestoppers, Board, LaFreniere Park Patron Board, President, Leadership, Graduate & Board, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Board, Executive Achievers Association, President, Chateau Civic Association, Member and the City of Kenner Mayoral Transition Team.
Brian is currently a Board member of “Visit Kenner” and has served on the following community organizations: International Credit Association Southeast Region, Director, Credit Association of Greater New Orleans, President, Kenner North Kiwanis, Member, East Jefferson YMCA, Board, Jefferson Alliance, President, Crimestoppers, Board, LaFreniere Park Patron Board, President, Leadership, Graduate & Board, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Board, Executive Achievers Association, President, Chateau Civic Association, Member and the City of Kenner Mayoral Transition Team.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Bruce Falkenstein
EVP, Chief Lending Officer
Covington
Bruce Falkenstein
- brucefalkenstein@gulfbank.com
- 504-841-7355
- NMLS #: 490460
Bruce Falkenstein is a distinguished banking executive with over four decades of experience in the financial industry. He currently serves as the Chief Lending Officer at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, where he has been instrumental in shaping the institution's success and fostering a culture of excellence in lending services.
He has consistently demonstrated his deep commitment to the banking sector. His leadership at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust has been characterized by innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of helping individuals, families, and business owners achieve their financial goals.
At the heart of Bruce's leadership philosophy is his passion for empowering communities. He firmly believes that a bank's role extends beyond mere transactions; it is about enhancing the quality of life in the areas it serves. Under his guidance, an energized team of lending professionals at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust works tirelessly to make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Bruce Falkenstein's tenure as Chief Lending Officer has been marked by a profound dedication to providing tailored financial solutions that align with the unique needs of clients. His vision extends far beyond the boardroom; he is deeply engaged in understanding the financial aspirations of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust's clients and tailoring lending strategies that bring those aspirations to life.
Bruce's commitment to excellence and community empowerment has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, clients, and community leaders alike. His wealth of experience, coupled with his visionary leadership, makes him a driving force in the banking industry.
As Bruce continues to lead Gulf Coast Bank & Trust into the future, one thing remains certain: his unwavering dedication to helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive financially will continue to shape the bank's legacy and leave a lasting positive impact on countless lives for generations to come.
He has consistently demonstrated his deep commitment to the banking sector. His leadership at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust has been characterized by innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of helping individuals, families, and business owners achieve their financial goals.
At the heart of Bruce's leadership philosophy is his passion for empowering communities. He firmly believes that a bank's role extends beyond mere transactions; it is about enhancing the quality of life in the areas it serves. Under his guidance, an energized team of lending professionals at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust works tirelessly to make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Bruce Falkenstein's tenure as Chief Lending Officer has been marked by a profound dedication to providing tailored financial solutions that align with the unique needs of clients. His vision extends far beyond the boardroom; he is deeply engaged in understanding the financial aspirations of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust's clients and tailoring lending strategies that bring those aspirations to life.
Bruce's commitment to excellence and community empowerment has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, clients, and community leaders alike. His wealth of experience, coupled with his visionary leadership, makes him a driving force in the banking industry.
As Bruce continues to lead Gulf Coast Bank & Trust into the future, one thing remains certain: his unwavering dedication to helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive financially will continue to shape the bank's legacy and leave a lasting positive impact on countless lives for generations to come.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Carlos Herrera
Commerical Lender
Williams
Carlos Herrera
- CarlosHerrera@gulfbank.com
- 504-537-4046
- NMLS #: 2790439
A native of New Orleans, Carlos Herrera started his banking career in 1996 upon graduating from Tulane’s A.B. Freeman School of Business with a BSM degree in Accounting. Carlos’s first stop in banking was with First NBC as a Commercial Credit Analyst where he spent two years underwriting Commercial loans. In 1998 Bank One acquired First NBC and Wells Fargo Corp recruited and relocated Carlos to Houston as a Commercial Relationship Manager. Wells Fargo then transferred Carlos to their Headquarters in San Francisco (2000), followed by a relocation to Wells Fargo Los Angeles in 2001 where he spent 20 years as a Commercial Relationship Manager working for Wells Fargo, Union Bank MUFG (Bank of Tokyo), and JPMorgan Chase all in Middle Market Banking. During Carlos’s 20-year Los Angeles banking career, he worked closely with C-suite management (existing and prospective clients) collaborating on debt financing options to facilitate growth via acquisitions, real estate and equipment purchases, Management buy-outs, and working capital needs.
During the COVID pandemic, Carlos and his family returned to New Orleans where he continued working in commercial banking for Home Bank and Capital One. Carlos has been married to his lovely wife, Kristi, since 2010 and the have two amazing children and two crazy Springer Spaniel dogs. The Herrera Family enjoys spending time together cooking, grilling, biking, swimming at their pool, the beach, golfing, and going to church. The Herreras currently reside in Old Metairie.
During the COVID pandemic, Carlos and his family returned to New Orleans where he continued working in commercial banking for Home Bank and Capital One. Carlos has been married to his lovely wife, Kristi, since 2010 and the have two amazing children and two crazy Springer Spaniel dogs. The Herrera Family enjoys spending time together cooking, grilling, biking, swimming at their pool, the beach, golfing, and going to church. The Herreras currently reside in Old Metairie.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Eric Bell
AVP, Commercial Lender
Veterans
Eric Bell
- EricBell@gulfbank.com
- 504-841-6001
- NMLS #: 701413
Eric Bell is a seasoned banking professional with over 17 years of experience in the industry and 14 years in lending. He graduated from McDonogh 35 High School and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Dillard University.
Eric began his banking career in 2007 as a Branch Manager at Chase Bank. In 2010, he transitioned to Regions Bank as a Branch Manager/Business Banking Lender, where he achieved The Chairman’s Club recognition in 2013 and completed the Emerging Leaders Program in 2014. In 2021, Eric moved to Iberia Bank, now known as First Horizon, where he served as a Banking Center Manager/Commercial Lender and was honored as a Diamond Circle Qualifier in 2022.
In 2024, Eric joined the commercial banking team at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. Throughout his career, he has successfully helped numerous clients achieve their financial goals, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the banking industry.
Eric began his banking career in 2007 as a Branch Manager at Chase Bank. In 2010, he transitioned to Regions Bank as a Branch Manager/Business Banking Lender, where he achieved The Chairman’s Club recognition in 2013 and completed the Emerging Leaders Program in 2014. In 2021, Eric moved to Iberia Bank, now known as First Horizon, where he served as a Banking Center Manager/Commercial Lender and was honored as a Diamond Circle Qualifier in 2022.
In 2024, Eric joined the commercial banking team at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. Throughout his career, he has successfully helped numerous clients achieve their financial goals, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the banking industry.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Eric Van Hoven
Commercial Lender
Main Office
Eric Van Hoven
- EricVanHoven@gulfbank.com
- 504-544-6316
- NMLS #: 108996
Eric currently serves as Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust for the past 10 years. He has a unique perspective on banking and lending as Eric has worked for large global banking institutions, regional banks, and now community banking since 2009. Eric has a degree in Business Administration and Management from the University of Southern Mississippi, an MBA from Loyola University of New Orleans, and completed the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. Eric is involved in several local nonprofit groups and sits on the board of the Greater Mid City Business Association. He was born and raised in the New Orleans area where he lives and works today. With over 20 years of lending and banking experience Eric is happy to provide knowledgeable counsel to help small businesses of all types grow and thrive.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Ferd Marsolan
SVP, Commercial Lender
Covington
Ferd Marsolan
- FERDMARSOLAN@GULFBANK.COM
- 985-249-7207
- NMLS #: 419900
Ferd has been in banking in the Greater N.O. area for the past 51 years since graduating from LSU with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1969. Ferd also graduated from the Graduate School of Banking of the South in 1983, and then obtained a Master of Business Administration from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2003.
In 2015 Ferd moved into business development and commercial lending. Previous experience includes Market Manager for St Tammany Parish for Metairie Bank, Construction Manager and construction lending for Capital One N.A., and Senior Branch Manager for Hibernia National Bank in New Orleans. Was Assistant Director of Finance for Ochsner Foundation Hospital from 1992 to 1995.
Ferd is the former Treasurer for St. Michaels Episcopal Church & School in Mandeville for 15 years and a current Finance & Investment Committee member. Active member for 10 years of Northshore Mandeville Rotary Club and membership committee. Former board member and active with the North Shore Homebuilders Association and active with the St Tammany Chamber of Commerce.
In 2015 Ferd moved into business development and commercial lending. Previous experience includes Market Manager for St Tammany Parish for Metairie Bank, Construction Manager and construction lending for Capital One N.A., and Senior Branch Manager for Hibernia National Bank in New Orleans. Was Assistant Director of Finance for Ochsner Foundation Hospital from 1992 to 1995.
Ferd is the former Treasurer for St. Michaels Episcopal Church & School in Mandeville for 15 years and a current Finance & Investment Committee member. Active member for 10 years of Northshore Mandeville Rotary Club and membership committee. Former board member and active with the North Shore Homebuilders Association and active with the St Tammany Chamber of Commerce.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Hart Bordelon, CPA
VP, Market President
Hammond
Hart Bordelon, CPA
- HartBordelon@gulfbank.com
- 985-249-7233
- NMLS #: 565727
Hart Bordelon, a lifelong resident of Hammond, is the Market President for Gulf Coast Bank & Trust in Hammond. Hart graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with B.S. in accounting and worked in private practice as a Certified Public Accountant. From 2001 through 2008, Hart served as bank director and audit committee chairman at Florida Parishes Bank. In addition to his financial background, Hart has experience in the construction industry. From 2004 through 2010, Hart was a licensed residential and commercial contactor in Louisiana.
Hart has completed the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He serves as the President of the Hammond Industrial & Economic Development District. Hart has served as a board member and Treasurer of the Greater Hammond Chamber of Commerce and served as President of the City Club of Hammond. He belongs to the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants.
Hart has completed the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He serves as the President of the Hammond Industrial & Economic Development District. Hart has served as a board member and Treasurer of the Greater Hammond Chamber of Commerce and served as President of the City Club of Hammond. He belongs to the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Jeff Dameron
AVP, Commercial Lender
Hammond
Jeff Dameron
- JEFFDAMERON@GULFBANK.COM
- 985-898-3863
- NMLS #: 603195
Jeff started his career in banking in 1994 with UC Lending as Mortgage Loan Officer later being promoted to Branch Manager. In 1999, he transitioned as a Sales Rep with promotions to Branch Manager at Equicredit, a wholesale mortgage division of Bank of America. After the 2001 sale of Equicredit by Bank of America, he returned to retail mortgage lending with 2 years at Guaranty Savings Bank and 10 years at Florida Parishes Bank. In 2016, he started a new path in lending with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust as Commercial & Consumer Lender. Furthering his education in commercial lending, he attended LSU Graduate School of Banking graduating in 2022. Outside of his banking duties with Gulf Coast, he volunteers and serves on multiple boards and organizations within the local community. Currently serving as Ambassador Chairman with Tangipahoa Parish Chamber of Commerce, SLU Alumni Board Member, Young Entrepreneurs Northshore Panel Member, Grace Memorial Episcopal Church Foundation Board Member and Treasurer for Grace Memorial’s Men’s Group. He is also active volunteering at Hammond High Magnet School with his sons’ soccer and power lifting teams where they attend.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Jennifer Boggs
VP, Market Manager
Perkins
Jennifer Boggs
- JENNIFERBOGGS@GULFBANK.COM
- 225-757-4402
- NMLS #: 466104
Jennifer is a Vice President/Market Manager in Commercial Lending division of Gulf Coast Bank. She works directly with entrepreneurs, business owners, individuals, and real estate investors to provide commercial loans and cash management solutions.
Jennifer holds a B.S. in Finance from Louisiana Tech University. She is an alumnus from the Graduate School of Banking program at Louisiana State University, Louisiana Bankers Association Leadership School, Gulf Coast Bank’s Next Wave Leadership Program, and Louisiana Bankers Association Commercial Lending School. Currently she is working toward a real estate designation, CCIM Designation (Certified Commercial Investment Member).
Jennifer began her career with Gulf Coast Bank 18 years ago. She has extensive experience in Small Business Lending, Commercial and Residential Real Estate Lending.
Jennifer has served as past Chairman of the Greater Ascension Rotary Club, Past President of Louisiana Bankers Education Council (LBEC), Board Member for Greater Baton Rouge Board of Realtors Commercial Investment Division. Past Member of Louisiana Workforce Investment Council.
When she is not working Jennifer enjoys supporting her daughter’s softball team, camping, boating, and traveling with her family. Jennifer has two daughters Mackinley (10) and Morgan (8).
Jennifer holds a B.S. in Finance from Louisiana Tech University. She is an alumnus from the Graduate School of Banking program at Louisiana State University, Louisiana Bankers Association Leadership School, Gulf Coast Bank’s Next Wave Leadership Program, and Louisiana Bankers Association Commercial Lending School. Currently she is working toward a real estate designation, CCIM Designation (Certified Commercial Investment Member).
Jennifer began her career with Gulf Coast Bank 18 years ago. She has extensive experience in Small Business Lending, Commercial and Residential Real Estate Lending.
Jennifer has served as past Chairman of the Greater Ascension Rotary Club, Past President of Louisiana Bankers Education Council (LBEC), Board Member for Greater Baton Rouge Board of Realtors Commercial Investment Division. Past Member of Louisiana Workforce Investment Council.
When she is not working Jennifer enjoys supporting her daughter’s softball team, camping, boating, and traveling with her family. Jennifer has two daughters Mackinley (10) and Morgan (8).
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Jeremy Bennett
Market President - Bay County Florida
Jim Kyle
SVP, Market Manager
Slidell
Jim Kyle
- JIMKYLE@GULFBANK.COM
- 985-646-6505
- NMLS #: 466133
Jim Kyle began his professional career as a high school administrator, teacher and coach in 1987 at Archbishop Hannan High School in Meraux, LA. In 1996 Jim changed professions and began his banking career as a commercial loan officer with the original First NBC Bank in Chalmette, LA. After an 11-month stint there, Jim moved over to GCB in August 1997. Over the course of Jim’s banking career at GCB, he has been a commercial lender and a branch manager in Chalmette and after moving to Slidell in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina.
Jim has been active in the Kiwanis Club of St. Bernard, The American Heart Association of St. Bernard Parish as well as the men’s clubs of St. Mark Parish Catholic Church, Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and currently Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.
Jim has been active in the Kiwanis Club of St. Bernard, The American Heart Association of St. Bernard Parish as well as the men’s clubs of St. Mark Parish Catholic Church, Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and currently Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
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John J. Finn, III (Jack)
SVP, Chief Credit Officer
John J. Finn, III (Jack)
As the Chief Credit Officer, Jack is responsible for all credit underwriting functions for the bank’s loan portfolio. Starting his career in 1982, Jack has over 40 years of experience in all facets of credit administration and asset quality operations (underwriter, loan review analyst, underwriting department manager, portfolio management, credit approval officer and credit committee member) in addition to direct experience as a Commercial Real Estate lender and Small Business Banking lender. He is a graduate of The University of New Orleans where he received his undergraduate degree in accounting in 1990 and an MBA in 1999. He obtained his CPA Certificate in 1993 and was a member of the 2007 class at the Graduate School of Banking of the South at LSU.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Jonathan Ochs
Coastal Region President
Miramar
Jonathan Ochs
- jonathanochs@gulfbank.com
- 850-502-0696
- NMLS #: 609098
Jonathan Ochs is a relationship driven banking leader who cares about people and enjoys finding creative solutions that allow everyone to win. Jonathan joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust in 2023 and brings over 26 years of experience in the financial industry, with 24 of those years in the Florida Panhandle Region.
His mission is simple; to establish GCBT’s culture along the Gulf Coast and Florida. The GCBT culture is one of excellence, outstanding personalized service and a common sense (needs-based) approach that always puts the customer first.
Coast to coast to coast is Jonathan’s story- he was born in New York, grew up in Southern California and made the jump in 2001 to vibrant Florida. Jonathan is a graduate of California Baptist University, where he also met his wife, Stacey. In addition, he is an alumnus of Florida School of Banking (Gainesville, FL), Graduate School of Banking at LSU (Baton Rouge, LA), Southeastern School of Advanced Commercial Lending (Nashville, TN), and Center for Creative Leadership (Greensboro, NC).
Service is near to Jonathan’s heart, and he has served numerous local churches and charities in various capacities over the years, including as Chairman of Heart of the Bride Ministries (orphan and foster care), Chairman of Destin Area Chamber of Commerce and currently as a member of Church on Bayshore in Niceville, FL and as the Past Chair for the Northwest Florida State College Foundation.
Jonathan and Stacey are blessed with 5 children! When he’s not helping customers, Jonathan spends most of his free time enjoying his family, playing guitar at church and playing/watching basketball with his boys.
His mission is simple; to establish GCBT’s culture along the Gulf Coast and Florida. The GCBT culture is one of excellence, outstanding personalized service and a common sense (needs-based) approach that always puts the customer first.
Coast to coast to coast is Jonathan’s story- he was born in New York, grew up in Southern California and made the jump in 2001 to vibrant Florida. Jonathan is a graduate of California Baptist University, where he also met his wife, Stacey. In addition, he is an alumnus of Florida School of Banking (Gainesville, FL), Graduate School of Banking at LSU (Baton Rouge, LA), Southeastern School of Advanced Commercial Lending (Nashville, TN), and Center for Creative Leadership (Greensboro, NC).
Service is near to Jonathan’s heart, and he has served numerous local churches and charities in various capacities over the years, including as Chairman of Heart of the Bride Ministries (orphan and foster care), Chairman of Destin Area Chamber of Commerce and currently as a member of Church on Bayshore in Niceville, FL and as the Past Chair for the Northwest Florida State College Foundation.
Jonathan and Stacey are blessed with 5 children! When he’s not helping customers, Jonathan spends most of his free time enjoying his family, playing guitar at church and playing/watching basketball with his boys.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
MaryAlice Neyhart
President, Baldwin County Alabama
Orange Beach
MaryAlice Neyhart
- MaryAliceNeyhart@gulfbank.com
- 251-421-1723
- NMLS #: 908364
MaryAlice serves as the Baldwin County Market President for Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, where she is leading the launch of a new branch location in Orange Beach, Alabama. With over 24 years of experience in the financial services industry, she brings a strong foundation in commercial lending, credit analysis, team leadership, and strategic market development.
Throughout her career, MaryAlice has led high-performing teams, managed multi-million-dollar loan portfolios, and played a key role in expanding banking services into new markets. Her focus on community-driven banking, operational excellence, and long-term client relationships has made her a trusted financial leader across the Gulf Coast region.
She views this new role as an opportunity to build something lasting alongside a team that shares her commitment to integrity, trust, and supporting the people who live and work in the community. MaryAlice is dedicated to cultivating strong relationships, expanding opportunities, and fostering a banking culture that reflects the spirit and strength of the coastal community she proudly calls home.
She is a graduate of the 2019 class of the LSU Graduate School of Banking and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Florida State University.
MaryAlice and her husband, Chris, live in Orange Beach and are the proud parents of two children. When she’s not working alongside clients to achieve their financial goals, MaryAlice enjoys cheering on her children at their events or spending time on the water with family and friends, fully embracing the coastal lifestyle.
Throughout her career, MaryAlice has led high-performing teams, managed multi-million-dollar loan portfolios, and played a key role in expanding banking services into new markets. Her focus on community-driven banking, operational excellence, and long-term client relationships has made her a trusted financial leader across the Gulf Coast region.
She views this new role as an opportunity to build something lasting alongside a team that shares her commitment to integrity, trust, and supporting the people who live and work in the community. MaryAlice is dedicated to cultivating strong relationships, expanding opportunities, and fostering a banking culture that reflects the spirit and strength of the coastal community she proudly calls home.
She is a graduate of the 2019 class of the LSU Graduate School of Banking and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Florida State University.
MaryAlice and her husband, Chris, live in Orange Beach and are the proud parents of two children. When she’s not working alongside clients to achieve their financial goals, MaryAlice enjoys cheering on her children at their events or spending time on the water with family and friends, fully embracing the coastal lifestyle.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Max Bourgeois
VP, Commercial Lender
Gretna
Max Bourgeois
- MAXBOURGEOIS@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-556-4228
- NMLS #: 922913
Max Bourgeois attended Archbishop Shaw High School & The University of Holy Cross where he majored in accounting and finance. He started his banking career in 2006 as a personal and investment banker at JP Morgan Chase Bank. In 2008 he moved into business banking with Chase Bank before becoming a commercial banker for First Bank & Trust. He joined the Gulf Coast Bank & Trust commercial banking team in 2022 after spending over 10 years with First Bank. Max is an experienced and knowledgeable commercial banker; he has helped many business owners and investors meet their goals throughout his career.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Michael Carter
SVP, Market Manager
Veterans
Michael Carter
- michaelcarter@gulfbank.com
- 504-565-4647
- NMLS #: 466107
Michael graduated from the University of New Orleans with a Bachelor of Science in Management. Prior to his career in banking, he spent a lot of time working in the hospitality industry and he and his spouse founded and operated a local advertising agency giving him an appreciation for entrepreneurship and fostering his interest in the finance industry.
After arriving at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company Michael entered the lender training program and after working in different capacities opened the Lakeview Branch as Banking Officer/ C0 - Branch Manager of the Lakeview Branch in April 2005. In 2011 he was promoted to VP/ Market Manager of the Main Office Branch. Since then, he has risen through the ranks to his current role of SVP/ Market Manager of the bank’s Commercial Lending Division
Michael is currently Chairman of the Board of Business Resource Capital which is Non-Profit Certified Development Corporation benefiting the Greater New Orleans Market where he has served as a board member for over 12 years. He also volunteers time and fundraises for The Covenant House of Greater New Orleans which provides care and support for homeless youth of the region. He was recently appointed to the Development & Communication Committee and over the past 6 years along with his peers has raised over $150,000 for this incredible cause.
Michael is an alumni of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU, Louisiana Bankers Association Leadership School, American Bankers Association Commercial Lending School, the Brian Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum, NEXT WAVE Leadership Forum, and the Louisiana Bankers Association Commercial Lending School.
When he is not working Michael enjoys camping, boating, traveling, and enjoying the outdoors with his wife Christina and two daughters Faith and Hope.
After arriving at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company Michael entered the lender training program and after working in different capacities opened the Lakeview Branch as Banking Officer/ C0 - Branch Manager of the Lakeview Branch in April 2005. In 2011 he was promoted to VP/ Market Manager of the Main Office Branch. Since then, he has risen through the ranks to his current role of SVP/ Market Manager of the bank’s Commercial Lending Division
Michael is currently Chairman of the Board of Business Resource Capital which is Non-Profit Certified Development Corporation benefiting the Greater New Orleans Market where he has served as a board member for over 12 years. He also volunteers time and fundraises for The Covenant House of Greater New Orleans which provides care and support for homeless youth of the region. He was recently appointed to the Development & Communication Committee and over the past 6 years along with his peers has raised over $150,000 for this incredible cause.
Michael is an alumni of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU, Louisiana Bankers Association Leadership School, American Bankers Association Commercial Lending School, the Brian Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum, NEXT WAVE Leadership Forum, and the Louisiana Bankers Association Commercial Lending School.
When he is not working Michael enjoys camping, boating, traveling, and enjoying the outdoors with his wife Christina and two daughters Faith and Hope.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Mickey Spencer
SVP, Commercial Lender
Veterans
Patrick Alexis
VP, Commercial Lender
Mandeville
Patrick Alexis
- PATRICKALEXIS@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-249-7230
- NMLS #: 602929
Patrick was born and raised in New Orleans where he attended De La Salle High School. He graduated from the University of Alabama. Patrick worked as a Small Business Specialist/Relationship Banker at JP Morgan Chase Bank before joining Gulf Coast Bank & Trust as a Personal Banker. Throughout his time at Gulf Coast Bank Patrick has received several promotions. In 2021 Patrick joined the Commercial Lending division. Patrick is married and has three children.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Rance Mangipano
SVP, Commercial Lender
Boston Street
Rance Mangipano
- RANCEMANGIPANO@GULFBANK.COM
- 985-898-3910
- NMLS #: 466141
Rance has been a commercial loan officer at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust since 2002. Rance grew up locally in the area and graduated from Holy Cross High school in New Orleans, LA; then graduated from the University of New Orleans earning a minor in management with a bachelor’s degree in finance. Rance also attended and completed the LBA commercial lending school in Baton Rouge, LA.
Rance is active in the community by serving children in youth sports. Rance has served as head coach at the local park in Covington, LA in a variety of sports including basketball, baseball, and volleyball. Rance also served as an assistant coach at the local flag football sports center. Rance’s approach has always been to try and teach them the sport, but more importantly teach them life lessons that they can carry with them for the rest of their life.
Rance is active in the community by serving children in youth sports. Rance has served as head coach at the local park in Covington, LA in a variety of sports including basketball, baseball, and volleyball. Rance also served as an assistant coach at the local flag football sports center. Rance’s approach has always been to try and teach them the sport, but more importantly teach them life lessons that they can carry with them for the rest of their life.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Randy Benefield
VP, Commercial Lender
Randy Benefield
- RANDYBENEFIELD@GULFBANK.COM
- 985-661-3158
- NMLS #: 618979
Randy started his financial career in 2000 and has had the privilege to assist clients with their residential, commercial, and investment needs. Randy is a proud graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, the LSU Graduate School of Banking, LBA Leadership School, and Leadership St. Tammany. In 2004, he completed the requirements to become a Louisiana Notary. Randy proudly serves on the board of the local Boys and Girls club for the past 4 years. Randy also helped found a non-profit organization, More Than Fore, three years ago that helps raise donations and awareness for pediatric cancer. To date More Than Fore has donated over $150,000 to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and local families faced with challenges from cancer diagnoses.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Randy Scheuermann
VP, Commercial Lender
Manhattan
Randy Scheuermann
- RANDYSCHEUERMANN@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-544-5596
- NMLS #: 1737160
Randy has been in the financial services for over 22 years, and specifically in commercial lending arena for the last 17 years. Randy started his career with Bank One/Chase, where he was a certified relationship banker and a regional Home Equity sales manager for LA and OK. After leaving Chase, Randy worked in commercial lending at Regions Bank and Capital One until subsequently landing at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. Randy donates over 200 hours a year to various non-profit organizations, primarily located on the Westbank of Jefferson Parish.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Rickie Dufrene
AVP, Commercial Lender
Gretna
Rickie Dufrene
- RICKIEDUFRENE@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-544-5592
- NMLS #: 1724587
Rickie started in banking after graduation from UNO back in 2002 at Hibernia National Bank as a personal banker. Rickie then moved up to Assistant Branch Manager in 2006 when Hibernia transitioned to Capital One Bank where Rickie became a Business Banker.
In 2018 Rickie joined Gulf Coast Bank as a Commercial Lender.
Rickie is a member of the Westwego Rotary Club since 2009 where he served as Treasurer for two years and then as President for one year. Rickie is currently President Elect to serve his second term next year. Rickie has also served as Founder/President of the Marrero Academy Dad’s Club for many years which is now the Ray St. Pierre Academy Dad’s Club.
Rickie is a coach at Pard Playground for his son’s various sports he plays including baseball, Flag football and soccer.
In 2018 Rickie joined Gulf Coast Bank as a Commercial Lender.
Rickie is a member of the Westwego Rotary Club since 2009 where he served as Treasurer for two years and then as President for one year. Rickie is currently President Elect to serve his second term next year. Rickie has also served as Founder/President of the Marrero Academy Dad’s Club for many years which is now the Ray St. Pierre Academy Dad’s Club.
Rickie is a coach at Pard Playground for his son’s various sports he plays including baseball, Flag football and soccer.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Robert Bass
AVP, Commercial Lender
Carrollton
Robert Bass
- ROBERTBASS@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-539-7290
- NMLS #: 1575211
Robert joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust in 2016 and worked in the Retail Division at the Magazine and Lakeview branches. In 2022, Robert moved into his current role as a Commercial Lender with the bank. During his time in Retail, Robert was awarded the bank’s Rising Star award, and graduated our Futures and Next Wave leadership training programs. Robert is currently enrolled in the LSU Graduate School of Banking. Robert is a graduate of Loyola University of New Orleans and Jesuit High School, and a lifelong resident of New Orleans. In the community, I recently served on the fundraising committee for the Volunteers of America Southeast Louisiana chapter’s Reach for the Stars event.
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Sean Warner
St. Bernard Market President
Business Center
Sean Warner
- SeanWarner@gulfbank.com
- 504-569-1919
- NMLS #: 466178
Sean is a St. Bernard Market President and Commercial Loan officer with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust at their Business Center Branch in Chalmette.
Sean is currently serving in his 4th term on the St. Bernard Parish School Board representing District 4; he has served on the Head Start Policy Council, Chaired the Building Committee and Co-Chaired the Finance Committee. Sean is a former long-time member and former Chair of The St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation. He’s currently a Board Member of the St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, served in 2009 as Chairmen of the Board of the St. Bernard Chamber. In 2010 Sean graduated from the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute and awarded “Most Proud Parish Resident”. The St. Bernard Parish Chamber of Commerce in 2011 honored him with its “Citizen of the Year” award. Sean currently serves on the St. Bernard Parish Redevelopment Governing Board.
Sean’s been a St. Bernard Parish Rotarian for over 16 years and past President of the St. Bernard Parish Rotarians as well as Rotarian of the year in 2015. In addition, Sean has been a Board Member, Past President, and Treasurer of the St. Bernard Parish Sports Hall of Fame.
Sean was born and raised and resides in St. Bernard Parish and has an undergraduate and master’s degree from the University of New Orleans. Sean and his wife Michele are the proud parents of three children, Amanda, Alex and Morgan and is an active member of OLPS Catholic Church.
Sean is currently serving in his 4th term on the St. Bernard Parish School Board representing District 4; he has served on the Head Start Policy Council, Chaired the Building Committee and Co-Chaired the Finance Committee. Sean is a former long-time member and former Chair of The St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation. He’s currently a Board Member of the St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, served in 2009 as Chairmen of the Board of the St. Bernard Chamber. In 2010 Sean graduated from the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute and awarded “Most Proud Parish Resident”. The St. Bernard Parish Chamber of Commerce in 2011 honored him with its “Citizen of the Year” award. Sean currently serves on the St. Bernard Parish Redevelopment Governing Board.
Sean’s been a St. Bernard Parish Rotarian for over 16 years and past President of the St. Bernard Parish Rotarians as well as Rotarian of the year in 2015. In addition, Sean has been a Board Member, Past President, and Treasurer of the St. Bernard Parish Sports Hall of Fame.
Sean was born and raised and resides in St. Bernard Parish and has an undergraduate and master’s degree from the University of New Orleans. Sean and his wife Michele are the proud parents of three children, Amanda, Alex and Morgan and is an active member of OLPS Catholic Church.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
Stephen Antoine
VP, Commercial Lender
Elmwood
Stephen Antoine
- StephenAntoine@gulfbank.com
- 504-565-3679
- NMLS #: 1279940
Stephen Antoine is currently a Vice President and Commercial Lender at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. He joined the bank in 2015 as a Relationship Banker. Then in 2016, Stephen was promoted to Branch Manager of the Main Office. In 2022, Stephen was promoted to a Commercial Lender and is currently working out of the Elmwood office. Prior to Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, Stephen worked for two other major banking institutions and in total has been in banking for over 16 years. During this time, Stephen has been involved in the community as a Board Member for the East Jefferson Business Association and the St. Matthew Men’s Club, an Ambassador for the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, an Advisor for the New Orleans Lympho-maniacs, and has volunteered many hours as a coach for Little Farms Playground and Eastbank Little League.
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Susan Famularo
VP, Market Manager
Veterans
Thomas Ogg
SVP, Market Manager
Lakeview
Thomas Ogg
- THOMASOGG@GULFBANK.COM
- 504-565-3676
- NMLS #: 466155
Thomas Ogg is currently a Senior Vice President with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company. He joined GCB in 2005 as a Vice President in Commercial Lending and was later promoted to a Market Manager. Before GCB, Thomas was a Personal Banker, then Branch Manager with JP Morgan Chase in New Orleans, LA.
Thomas attended Isidore Newman High School in New Orleans, LA. He graduated college from The University of Georgia as Magna Cum Laude with a degree in International Business. Thomas is also a graduate of The Graduate School of Banking at LSU.
Thomas just recently joined the Trinity Episcopal School Board of Trustees and runs the youth Flag Football league for the Carrollton Boosters non-profit sports organization.
Thomas attended Isidore Newman High School in New Orleans, LA. He graduated college from The University of Georgia as Magna Cum Laude with a degree in International Business. Thomas is also a graduate of The Graduate School of Banking at LSU.
Thomas just recently joined the Trinity Episcopal School Board of Trustees and runs the youth Flag Football league for the Carrollton Boosters non-profit sports organization.
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Todd Elliot
Commercial Lender
Todd Elliot
Todd Elliot started his banking career in 2009 upon graduating from LSU’s E.J. Ourso College of Business with a degree in Finance. He began with First NBC Bank initially in Retail Banking, then moving on as a Commercial Credit Analyst and later, a Commercial Relationship Manager. His experience there included traditional real estate lending as well as transactions involving Historic, New Market, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. In 2017, he joined First American Bank as a Vice President of Lending to continue his career as a Commercial and Consumer Residential lender. During his time there, he deepened his banking relationships in the Greater New Orleans Area and financed countless construction projects for his customers. Now joining Gulf Coast Bank in 2026 as a Commercial Lender, Todd will continue to deliver an exceptional level of service to his customers now with all the products and offerings of a regional bank.
Todd is a graduate of Jesuit High School and currently resides in Metairie. He is an active contributor with the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and The Round Table Club of New Orleans. When he is not working, he enjoys golfing, boating, and billiards.
Todd is a graduate of Jesuit High School and currently resides in Metairie. He is an active contributor with the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and The Round Table Club of New Orleans. When he is not working, he enjoys golfing, boating, and billiards.
*Do not email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information.
William Lloyd
Regional Development