Columbia Banking System Announces CFO Transition Ahead of 2026

Columbia Banking System, Inc. has announced a significant leadership change, with Ronald Farnsworth stepping down as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective December 31, 2025. Farnsworth, who has held the CFO position since March 2023, will transition to an advisory role until June 1, 2026. He has been instrumental in guiding the company through its merger with Umpqua Holdings Corporation, where he previously served as CFO.

The board has appointed Ivan Seda, currently the Deputy CFO, as Farnsworth’s successor. Seda, who joined Columbia in August 2025, has held various high-level financial roles, including CFO at Union Bank and Deputy CFO at BECU. His extensive background in financial management positions him well to lead Columbia into its next chapter.

Leadership Changes and Future Directions

Clint Stein, CEO of Columbia, expressed gratitude for Farnsworth’s contributions, stating, “Ron has played a key role in establishing Columbia as the leading Western banking franchise.” Stein emphasized that Farnsworth’s efforts have optimized the bank’s performance and positioned it for long-term growth. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in Seda’s ability to build on the bank’s momentum and drive further shareholder value.

Farnsworth reflected on his time at Columbia, noting, “It has been a privilege to help lead Columbia during a transformative period of integration and optimization.” He expressed confidence in Seda’s capability to take on the CFO role and maintain the company’s trajectory of profitability.

Seda shared his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “It’s an honor to assume the role of CFO at such an exciting time in our company’s history.” He highlighted Columbia’s robust financial foundation and expressed his commitment to driving organic growth and enhancing shareholder returns.

Columbia’s Financial Performance and Upcoming Conference

In a separate announcement, Columbia Banking System released its financial results for the third quarter of 2025. The company will host a conference call with investors and analysts later today at 5:00 p.m. ET to discuss these results in detail.

Columbia Banking System, headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, is the parent company of Columbia Bank, one of the largest banks in the western United States. With a presence in various states, including Arizona, California, and Oregon, Columbia Bank provides a comprehensive suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, as well as wealth management.

For more information about Columbia Banking System, visit their website at www.columbiabankingsystem.com.