State business agency adds C.O. finance officer

Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency, said Tuesday it has expanded its staff in Central Oregon to include a business finance officer with 25 years of experience in commercial banking.

Thomas Schnell will work with small businesses, local private lenders and economic development partners to help grow the Central Oregon economy. He will improve access to Business Oregon’s finance programs and help lenders support small businesses seeking capital to operate and expand, officials said.

Schnell has worked in commercial banking in Central Oregon for 20 years. He started his career in U.S. Bank, graduating from its management training program, and also worked at Umpqua Bank (formerly Sterling Bank) and Wells Fargo. Schnell’s region will include the counties of Crook, Deschutes, Hood River, Jefferson and Wasco.

Schnell grew up in Roseburg and graduated from Oregon State University in 1990 with a business degree. He lives in Bend and has three children. Schnell and his family enjoy Central Oregon’s outdoor activities, from ice skating to kayaking to biking.

About Business Oregon’s Finance Programs

The state’s economic development agency provides business loans to expand the access to capital for Oregon’s small, growing businesses. Learn more.