New Mexico Commercial Banking
Your deal is in good hands with our seasoned New Mexico Commercial Banking team. Boasting more than 150 years in combined experience, we know what it takes to get your commercial loan booked. Annually, our team closes on average $200 million in commercial loans for New Mexico clients. With unmatched personal service, we can help you with just about any industry, from construction to healthcare. Whatever project you're working on, whether it's business purchase, equipment financing, working capital, real estate projects and more, we've got your back. When you see WaFd Bank's name atop Albuquerque Plaza, consider experiencing the difference WaFd Bank can make for you.
Meet our New Mexico Commercial Team
NM Commercial Division Manager for WaFd Bank, Joshua Smith, enjoys working with a team of exceptionally talented Commercial Bankers across New Mexico. Josh's career began in the Mutual Fund industry but moved to Albuquerque with his wife and child in 2007, beginning his career in Commercial Banking. His primary area of expertise is multi-family housing, investor-owned commercial real estate lending including self-storage and industrial projects and Business Banking.
Josh sits on the Executive Management Committee of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) NM, Board of Directors Veterans Integration Centers and NM Small Business Investment Council. The father of four children, Josh spends his time camping, skiing and traveling with his family.
With over 15 years of banking experience, Aaron has the knowledge and experience to help his clients succeed financially. While focused on value add and construction projects he also works with his C&I clients to reach their financial goals. As a native New Mexican he has a passion to facilitate growth and improve our local economy. An avid soccer fan, Aaron spends most of his free time participating in the sport and supporting New Mexico United.
Melissa brings over 25-years of commercial banking experience in both the National and Community Banking space, serving as a Commercial Lender, Treasury Management Director and Senior Depository Relationship Manager. Melissa is responsible for maintaining and growing a significant depository portfolio of large Public Fund and Treasury Management Clients and maintains a key leadership role in developing new product strategies while assisting with coaching other Team Members. Melissa is currently serving on the board for the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Museum Foundation and is a past board member of the CNM Foundation.
Michael began his banking career in 2016 while completing his MBA at New Mexico State University. Starting as a Teller, he worked his way into commercial banking and now serves as a Commercial Relationship Officer at WaFd bank. His primary focus as a lender is investor-owned commercial real estate financing, including multi-family housing, office, retail, and industrial projects, as well as homebuilder lines of credit. He prides himself on his ability to accurately identify the needs of his clients and works to provide meaningful solutions to meet their financial goals. Michael is a Leadership Las Cruces Alumni and is an active member in the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance and the El Paso Apartment Association.
Crystal joined WaFd Bank in August 2016 and has over 20 years commercial banking experience. She is passionate about helping clients grow their businesses and achieve their financial goals. Crystal has a diversified skill set with expertise in commercial real estate, construction financing, C&I business lending, medical and hospitality.
Jennifer started her banking career in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2005. Jennifer supports central and northern New Mexico by working with small businesses and volunteering in the community. Jennifer specializes in a variety of lending options. From multi-family and commercial real estate to lines of credit, equipment loans and term loan options. In the community Jennifer works with Junior Achievement, WESST, CREW NM and The Apartment Association of New Mexico. Outside of work, Jennifer is the mother of 2 beautiful children and loves camping with her family.