Columbia Bank is proud to announce that Mark Prowe, Treasury Operations Officer, is the recipient of a 2024 New Jersey Bankers “Rising Star” Award. The award recognizes emerging professionals who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, commitment to the banking industry and exhibit positive impacts through community service. Mr. Prowe’s recognition highlights his significant contributions to Columbia Bank’s Treasury Department, as well as his impact across the Bank and local communities.
Mr. Prowe joined Columbia Bank as an intern in 2015, before accepting a role as an Associate Development Trainee in 2016. He completed a rigorous two-year rotational program to gain in-depth experience across various functions of the Bank. Following his training, he transitioned into a full-time position as a Treasury Analyst. Since then, Mark has demonstrated exceptional leadership and potential, earning a promotion to officer status and assuming critical responsibilities within the Bank’s treasury function. His current role includes financial modeling, interest rate risk reporting and more. He currently serves on the Bank’s Asset Liability Committee and Investment Committee.
“On behalf of Team Columbia, we would like to thank Mark for his continued commitment to our Bank and our industry,” said Thomas J. Kemly, President and CEO of Columbia Bank. “Beginning his career as an intern, it has been a pleasure to witness Mark’s eagerness to learn and strong collaboration skills. We look forward to his continued success and are thrilled that he has been recognized by NJ Bankers.”
Mark’s technical acumen has been pivotal in transforming the Bank’s financial modeling processes. In 2023, he led the implementation of a new financial model that processes in less than ten minutes, enhances interest rate risk reporting, and accommodates various economic scenarios. His work has enhanced the Bank’s ability to make informed, agile decisions on pricing, investment, and overall business strategies.
Mr. Prowe is a dedicated participant in Columbia Bank’s corporate volunteer program, “Team Columbia.” He has a passion for mental health advocacy and hands-on projects, such as Habitat for Humanity Build Days. Mark graduated from Drexel University's LeBow College of Business, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. Mark is also a member of the NJ Bankers CFO Committee and the Financial Managers Society, where he advocates for industry engagement among young professionals.
