Meet Our Business Bankers

Brett began his banking career in 2020 after graduating from Wartburg College with bachelor’s degrees in finance and economics. He joined Northwest Bank in February 2022 and has since been dedicated to building strong, long-term relationships with his clients. As a Commercial Banker, Brett provides a full range of business lending solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of clients across various industries and business sizes. He takes pride in exceeding expectations and demonstrating that banking with Northwest Bank means having a trusted partner you can count on. Brett is active in the community through his involvement in several professional and industry organizations, including Ankeny Young Professionals, West Des Moines Young Professionals, and the Des Moines Home Builders Association (DSM HBA).

James Ramsey, Vice President and Commercial Lender brings over 25 years of financial services experience to the Northwest Bank team and specializes in growing and managing Commercial and Business banking relationships. James’ banking background includes Chief Credit Officer, Senior Lender and former bank examiner. James is a member of one of Des Moines’ oldest breakfast clubs, The Morning Club. He also serves in other community organizations such as Ankeny Rotary and the Ankeny Economic Development Committee.

Jill Thielen brings 26 years of financial services experience and expertise to Northwest Bank. Jill serves on the Board of the Faith Formation Council at St. Mary’s of Nazareth and is involved with the Johnston and West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. 

Kerry McGuire brings over 25 years of banking experience in Des Moines, specializing in both commercial and real estate lending. He holds an MBA from the University of Iowa and a Bachelor's degree in Finance from Iowa State University.

Kerry is deeply rooted in the Des Moines community. He is an active member of the Des Moines Reciprocity Breakfast Club and serves on the board of the St. Thomas More Center and Dowling Soccer Club. He also contributes his time to youth development through coaching and his involvement with the Catholic Football League.

 Kerry and his wife, Renee, are proud parents of five children. His professional expertise, combined with his commitment to family and community, reflects his values of leadership, service, faith, and integrity.

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"

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.