Dallas Business Journal
DALLAS, TX – May 12, 2025 –
Vista Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Charles McElrath as Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending for its South Dallas market. With over 40 years of experience in financial management including over 25 years in commercial lending, McElrath brings a wealth of expertise and a deep connection to the South Dallas community to his new role.
With a distinguished career in the financial sector, McElrath served clients at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and Comerica Bank, before spending over 13 years as President & CEO of the Southern Dallas Development Corporation. A self-motivated finance professional, Charles is known for fostering strong client relationships and driving impactful financial solutions tailored to local market needs.
In his new position, Charles will focus on expanding Vista Bank’s commercial lending portfolio in South Dallas, leveraging his deep market knowledge and proven track record to support businesses and drive economic growth in the region.
“I’m honored to join Vista Bank and help contribute to its mission of growing South Dallas through the power of small business,” said Charles McElrath. “This role allows me to combine my passion for finance with my commitment to making a meaningful impact in a market I deeply care about. As a Vista banker, I share more than my client’s sense of urgency – they have access to my cell phone which builds strong partnerships that add to their ability to scale.”
John D. Steinmetz, CEO of Vista Bank, expressed enthusiasm about Charles’s addition to the team. “Charles’ strong reputation as an excellent commercial lender, along with his genuine commitment to putting People First, make him a great fit for our South Dallas market,” Steinmetz said. “His deep community ties and relationships will help grow the banking side of the business, while his heart to teach young entrepreneurs how to fish in the Vista Bank Academy Path to Yes program will ensure we are teaching people how to fish while providing a quality pond.”
Celebrating its first anniversary of the S. Dallas Bank & Financial Literacy Center grand opening, Charles’s appointment underscores Vista Bank’s commitment to investing in the region’s best talent to serve its communities with excellence.
