February 10th, 2004

GOVERNOR SCHWARZENEGGER APPOINTS HOWARD GOULD COMMISSIONER OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced the appointment of Howard Gould as commissioner of financial institutions.

"Howard's tremendous background in the banking and financial services industry and his experience serving in State government combine to make him an excellent addition to my administration," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "I have confidence that Howard will work diligently to ensure the integrity of financial institutions in the state."

After leaving the banking industry in 2003, Gould has served as executive director of the PepsiCo-Frito Lay Leadership Center and as a faculty member at California State University, Los Angeles. He was the vice chairman of Bank of the West from 2002 to 2003 where he assisted in managing the integration of former United California Bank into Bank of the West and managed multiple business lines. From 1992 to 2002 Gould served as vice chairman, chief operating officer and board member for United California Bank and Sanwa Bank and was the West Coast managing partner of the Secura Group from 1989 to 1992. Gould served in Governor George Dukemejian's administration as Superintendent of Banks and as deputy secretary of the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency. Prior to joining the Dukemejian administration, he served as chief consultant to the California Assembly Republican Caucus. Gould was a board member of the California Community Reinvestment Board and the Los Angeles Public Library Foundation.

"I am honored that Governor Schwarzenegger has asked me to use my experience to serve in this important role," said Gould. "I look forward to working with the Governor and Secretary McPeak to provide safe and secure financial institutions for all Californians."

Gould, 54, is from Missoula, Montana. He earned a Master's degree in business administration from California State University, Sacramento and a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration from San Jose State University. This position requires Senate confirmation. Gould is a Republican.

The Department of Financial Institutions is under the jurisdiction of the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency. The department supervises over 700 state-chartered financial institutions with assets totaling over $214 billion. The department's mission is to oversee the safe operation of California's state-chartered financial institutions to maintain public confidence and facilitate a strong financial services system while serving the convenience and needs of the public.

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