In an effort to enhance the Small Business Administration (SBA) department, Heritage Oaks Bank recently named Karen Nuño its vice president/SBA lending manager.

Nuño is responsible for expanding the local bank's SBA department and enhancing the its small business program.

"I desired to work for a bank that remained a true ‘community’ bank,” Nuño said.   

She will be headquartered at the Town Center West office in Santa Maria and will provide SBA services throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.

“We are thrilled to announce that Karen Nuño has joined Heritage Oaks Bank and Business First Bank, as vice president/SBA lending manager,” said Joanne Funari, executive vice president for Heritage Oaks Bank. “We are very fortunate to have someone like Karen who has broad experience in banking with a unique interest in government guaranteed programs. She will provide valuable financial counsel to current and prospective customers. She is a great addition to our team.”

Nuño has been in banking for 22 years; specializing in government guaranteed programs, specifically 19 years in SBA and 10 years in USDA. She has extensive experience in the SBA departments of Montecito Bank & Trust, Community West Bank and most recently served for 6 years as the Vice President/Government Guarantee Loan Manager covering the State of California for Rabobank. 

In her spare time, Nuño enjoys cooking, helping the elderly, and spending time with her family. She has lived on the Central Coast all her life.