Paul Watkins

About Paul Watkins

With more than 20 years of commercial banking experience, I’ve built my career around one core principle — serving the people I work with, so they can thrive, through trusted and candid relationship advise.As a multifaceted Commercial Lender, I’ve successfully structured and managed CRE, C&I, Equipment, SBA, ABL, Tax Exempt, Land A&D and residential construction loans. Taking a holistic relationship approach, I also advise on working capital cycles, cash management strategies, Treasury Management services and fraud prevention best practices. My experience spans SMBs, medical practices, developers, municipalities, special districts, non-profits and high net worth individuals throughout Colorado, Wyoming and Arizona.My approach combines formal credit training from Wells Fargo, Moody’s Analytics (Financial Analysis of Local Governments), Omega Performance, and BBI Financial with a solution oriented mindset. I take pride in deeply understanding each client’s goals, conducting thorough financial analysis, and advocating effectively with internal and external partners to secure optimal outcomes.Growing up in a rural, agricultural region, shaped my early work ethic and leadership style. At an early age, I developed an interest in business, finance, economics, and competitive team environments. As a 5th generation Colorado native, I’m deeply passionate about giving to community. I\'d love to learn how I can help provide a ways and means for you to accomplish your financial hopes and dreams!

Experience

1. Director, Community Banking

   FNBO

   Mar 2026 — Present · Fort Collins, CO, US

   Office:(97••••••07Email: p•••••••@fnbo.comI am here to help business owners, investors, and developers across Northern Colorado secure commercial financing and manage that hard earned cash, to support long-term growth.My focus includes commercial real estate, owner-occupied real estate, and business lending for companies looking to expand operations, acquire property, or improve capital structure.I spend most of my time meeting with local companies, understanding their business model, and designing credit structures and cash management plans that align with cash flow and long-term strategy.Northern Colorado is one of the fastest-growing business markets in the country, and I enjoy working closely with the entrepreneurs and operators building and strengthening our community.

Education

• University of Northern Colorado

  Bachelor of Science, Business Management

  1996 — 2000

Skills

• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Entrepreneurship
• Strategic Financial Planning
• Credit
• Financial Modeling
• Banking
• Risk Management
• Strategic Planning
• Finance
• Business Planning
• Small Business
• Analysis
• Sales Management
• New Business Development
• Investments
• Leadership
• Sales
• Business Strategy
• Financial Analysis
• Management
• Team Building
• Business Development
• Portfolio Management
• Mergers
• Loans
• Due Diligence