Biz Buzz: Second local banker to head state group

It’s ‘a big deal for the Central Coast’ as a SLO banker takes over as president from another local executive

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Anita Robinson, a founder of Mission Community Bank and the chairwoman of the California Bankers Association, will pass her title on this week to another prominent local banker, Jim Lokey.

Robinson was the first woman to lead the association, which is one of the largest banking trade associations in the nation.

It represents more than 300 California financial companies, including commercial banks, industrial loan companies and savings institutions that hold more than $4 trillion in assets combined.

Lokey, president of community banking for Rabobank N. A., will lead the association for a year beginning in June.

Having a local banker lead the large trade association two years in a row is exciting, Robinson said.

“It’s quite unusual and a big deal for the Central Coast,” Robinson said.

As chairwoman, Robinson said she tried to bring a voice for smaller community banks to policymakers. She also worked to further the involvement of women in banking and to cultivate interest among young people in pursuing banking careers.

Both she and Lokey have had long careers in banking.

Robinson has more than 35 years in the industry and is the president and chief executive officer of San Luis Obispo-based Mission Community Bank.

Lokey started his banking career in 1973 and oversaw Mid-State Bank & Trust’s acquisition last year by Rabobank.

—Dawn White

Firms seek workers at Cuesta’s job fair

Cuesta College says more than 40 employers with job openings are expected at Wednesday’s Spring 2008 Job Fair from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. in Room 5401 of the school’s Conference Center.

The job fair is open to Cuesta College students and the public.

Employers from a variety of industries are expected to be on hand to recruit and hire people for part-time and full-time positions, provide information on internships and answer questions about career opportunities.

Job seekers are encouraged to bring résumés. A list of participating employers is available by visiting the Cuesta College Career Connections office in Room 5310 on the San Luis Obispo campus.

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Giovanni’s Fish Market on the Morro Bay waterfront marked its grand reopening over the weekend, starting with a Friday afternoon ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating its recent quarter-million- dollar renovation.

Changes included construction of a new “high-speed” kitchen and new restrooms, according to restaurant owners.

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The San Luis Obispo School of Law, 165 Grand Ave., will host an introductory session for the public at 6 p. m. Thursday in Room 15.

The event is an opportunity for anyone interested in the school or obtaining a law degree to learn more and ask questions.

Judge Charles Porter, founder and head instructor of the school, is set to be on hand. For information or directions, call 544-6767 or e-mail cheryluslolaw@hotmail.com . —Tonya Strickland

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Nonprofit Support Center opened its third regional resource center in San Luis Obispo on April 1.

The center advocates for and mentors nonprofit groups countywide with leadership, training and consulting services. Its new center is at 4100 Vachell Lane, inside the KCBX building.

NSC’s resource center will be open Tuesdays and Thursday from 9 a. m. to 5 p. m. For information, call 547-2244 or visit www.supportcenter.org .