Seattle Banker Appointed Chair of ABA's American Bankers Council

The American Bankers Association today announced that Brent Beardall has been appointed chair of ABA’s American Bankers Council for the 2021-2022 membership year. Beardall is the chief executive officer and president of Washington Federal (WaFd) Bank in Seattle where he has spent 20 years in various roles throughout the organization.

Beardall’s previous roles within WaFd Bank include vice president & controller and chief financial officer. As CFO, he oversaw all client-facing activities of the bank across eight states for more than a decade. He was also named “CFO of the Year” by the Puget Sound Business Journal. Beardall is the sixth person in WaFd Bank’s 103-year history to hold the title of CEO.

"I am honored to chair the ABC group this year and look forward to working closely with my fellow midsize bank CEOs across the country and the ABA's professional staff to advance our industry's agenda," said Beardall. "Banks of all sizes have provided critical support to our communities through the pandemic, and with the right policy environment, we have an opportunity to help drive the recovery forward."

"Brent is a strong leader who brings a passion and enthusiasm for banking to this important role,” said Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO. “His wealth of knowledge and experience, along with his commitment to ensuring that the banking industry makes a positive difference in the communities we serve, makes him a great choice to lead ABA’s American Bankers Council.”

The American Bankers Council is ABA’s banker-driven peer group for midsize bank chief executives. The council provides feedback and direction to ABA on key regulatory and legislative issues critical to midsize banks. The council also participates in regular meetings with their peers to exchange information and share best practices on issues affecting their banks.

In addition to leading WaFd Bank, Beardall serves on several nonprofit boards in the greater Seattle area including the United Way of King County, YMCA of Greater Seattle, Pacific Coast Banking School and the Washington Bankers Association.

Beardall holds a Masters Degree in Professional Accounting from Brigham Young University.