Stearns Bank Announces Ina Narula as Chief Risk Officer

ST. CLOUD,  MN (June 1, 2026) — Stearns Bank announced today that Ina Narula has joined the organization as Chief Risk Officer, bringing more than 20 years of experience in enterprise risk management, regulatory oversight, audit, and financial services leadership. In her role, Narula will oversee the bank’s enterprise risk management strategy, helping strengthen the organization’s risk framework while supporting continued growth, operational excellence, and long-term financial stability.

Narula joins Stearns Bank with extensive experience, leading risk management functions across the banking and financial services industry. Most recently, she served as Chief Risk Officer at Amalgamated Bank. Her background also includes leadership roles with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Deutsche Bank, American Express, Fifth Third Bank, and Procter & Gamble. (LinkedIn)

“Ina brings a thoughtful and strategic approach to risk management that aligns with our commitment to responsible growth and long-term customer success,” said Heather Plumski- President. “Her depth of experience across regulatory, operational, and enterprise risk management will be an important asset to Stearns Bank as we continue to grow and evolve.”

Narula is a Certified Public Accountant and has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Chief Risk Officers of 2025 by Women We Admire. (PRWeb)

“I’m excited to join an organization that is deeply committed to its customers, communities, and long-term vision,” said Narula. “I look forward to partnering across the organization to help support sustainable growth and strong risk stewardship."

About Stearns Bank

Stearns Bank is Unusual. Stearns Bank National Association is a majority women-owned and governed financial services institution committed to empowering people, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and local communities to reach their full financial potential. As a privately held, employee-owned entity, Stearns Bank offers a wide array of national products and services including consumer and small business banking, affordable housing financing, USDA and SBA lending, and equipment and small business financing. Headquartered in Minnesota, the well-capitalized institution has branch locations in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona. Guided by a commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace, Stearns Bank is regularly recognized as one of the nation’s highest performing banks and ‘Best Banks to Work For’ by American Banker. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Learn more at www.StearnsBank.com.

Media Contact
Marlice Johnson
Marlice.Johnson@StearnsBank.com
C: 320-910-8457