SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Bankers Association today announced that Richard (Rick) Smith, president and chief executive officer of Tri Counties Bank, was honored as the CBA’s Distinguished Banker of the Year. Smith was recognized at the CBA’s Bank Presidents Seminar event on January 9, 2025. 

“The California Bankers Association is honored to have presented this award to Rick,” said Kevin Gould, president & CEO of the California Bankers Association. “Our association has benefitted greatly from Rick’s guidance and leadership over the years. In addition to serving as the chair of our board of directors, he has led and dedicated countless hours to numerous committees. Rick has been a passionate advocate for the banking community and is truly deserving of this award.”

The award honors a banker who personifies what it is to be a distinguished California banker – a banker who is dedicated to the industry, a role model for future leaders, engaged in their community, and also serves as a leader within the association. 

Smith joined Tri Counties Bank more than 30 years ago as vice president of supermarket banking. He served as vice president of bank operations, chief information officer, and chief operations officer. In 2020, he was appointed chairman of the Board of Directors. Under his leadership, Tri Counties Bank grew from less than $500 million in assets to nearly $10 billion in assets in 2025. The bank has acquired six community banks and grown from 13 to 68 branches and from 200 employees to over 1,200.   

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