Paul brings over 10 years of experience in commercial lending with Northwest Bank, specializing in equipment loans, lines of credit, and commercial real estate financing. He also has an extensive background in Treasury Management, giving him a well-rounded perspective to support the financial needs of local businesses.
A strong advocate for community involvement, Paul currently serves as President of the Clay County Pheasants Forever Chapter, sits on the Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club Board, and is a past Board Chair of the Spencer Family YMCA.
With over 30 years of financial services experience, Ralph DiCesare specializes in construction / development lending at Northwest Bank and previously held the same position with Union Planters / Regions Bank. Ralph is involved with the Des Moines Homebuilders Association, is the Treasurer for St. Marys / Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department, and coaches high school football for Martensdale – St. Marys Community Schools.
Ross is responsible for managing and developing relationships with local businesses in the Des Moines market. He is a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Ross is an active member in the Des Moines community and is involved with Young Variety – The Children’s Charity as VP of Philanthropy, and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and Ankeny Chamber of Commerce.
Check Out Ross's Podcast Episode: "Road to Business Ownership"
Sara holds both an undergraduate and master’s degree from Wayne State College. She began her career at the Spencer Family YMCA before transitioning to Northwest Bank’s Human Resources team. In 2017, she moved to the Omaha area, where she served as a Treasury Management Service Representative. With 8+ years of banking experience, Sara now supports business customers in commercial lending, treasury management, and banking services.
A 2023 graduate of Leadership Sarpy, Sara is also active in the community through the Chamber of Commerce. As a Loan Portfolio Manager, her goal is to help businesses grow and thrive with the support of Northwest Bank. She values building strong relationships with clients and believes the connection to your financial institution is invaluable. Sara is committed to being a compassionate, approachable financial partner, always ready to help find answers and solutions.
Travis began his career at Northwest Bank in 2007 and has served in various positions within the company. Travis served as Regional Mortgage Manger, Private Banking, EVP overseeing retail, mortgage, and Wealth Management.
Travis has played a key role in Northwest Bank’s growth and providing direction to employee’s while keeping the company values at the forefront of his leadership.
Throughout his career at Northwest Bank Travis learned the motto “Leave it better than you found it”! This motto has been passed down from ownership and continues to be a value that employees live by. Travis believes this motto has helped provide direction for his career and leading others. “Banking is a people business and when you care about doing what’s best for people, we all win”, Simpson stated.
His leadership experience has set the bank on a path for continued success, making the needs of our customers and community top priority. Travis has supported the community by serving on multiple boards; Eat Greater Des Moines, Flying Spikes Baseball Club, Beacon of Life for 7 years, where he served as President for 3 years. Currently Simpson serves as the Secretary / Treasurer for the Neighborhood Finance Corporation and as an ambassador for the Iowa chapter of Coaches vs Cancer. He is a 1992 graduate of Iowa State University.
