Florida Banking October 2021

It’s due to the bank’s focus on digital transformation in the last five years that Terrabank was well positioned to not only survive but thrive during the pandemic. In terms of deposit growth, Terrabank grew 27 percent with the support of its customers. “Our client base demonstrated confidence in the bank,” Martinez Henares said. “Our deposits grew significantly and we had a great opportunity to assist small-to-medium sized businesses during a particularly challenging time.” Personal Service and Relationships Terrabank’s leadership understands that banking is a highly relational business. Both Uribe and Martinez Henares agree that the bank’s personal service is a draw for customers. On the commercial side of the business, especially, transactions are tailored to the client. Terrabank treats its customers as individuals, not as a number. Decision makers are local, experts in understanding the economic conditions of South Florida and Latin America. The team seeks to understand their clients’ businesses and ask insightful questions to customize financial solutions. “The process requires both relationship, a thorough understanding of the customer and his needs and customization,” Martinez Henares said. These ideals are represented in the company’s core values: • A client-first culture • A passion for excellence

• A guarantee of integrity and personal accountability • A professional staff empowered to create and innovate • A culture of teamwork and respect Uribe and Martinez Henares credit their employees and their board for executing the bank’s vision and serving clients both digitally and personally each day. “People are fundamental,” said Uribe. “The quality of our employees and the loyalty and continuity of our management team are key factors to our success.” Uribe and Martinez Henares have been with Terrabank for more than 15 years. In 2000, the investor group asked Martinez Henares to join the bank as chair of the board; Uribe joined the bank in 2006. Rounding out the leadership team are Executive Vice Presidents Joaquin Arguello, the domestic and international retail banking head, Maria Elena Riera, CFO, and Lucas Azar, chief lending officer. Terrabank’s local board, too, is heavily involved and has experienced little turnover in the past 15 years of Uribe’s and Martinez’s leadership. “We have a very strong management team that has been able to drive the bank and execute our strategy… but certainly the significant support, knowledge and insight provided by our board has been another reason for our success,” said Martinez Henares.

The Terrabank leadership, from left, are: Joaquin Arguello, Maria Elena Riera, Francisco Martinez Henares, Antonio Uribe, and Lucas Azar.

10 — FLORIDA BANKING THE VOICE OF FLORIDA BANKING