Born and raised in San Rafael, Russ Colombo became interested in banking at an early age, thanks in large part to an uncle who worked for Bank of America in Sonoma County. In 1975, after completing a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and business management, Russ entered the bank training program at California First Bank (now Union Bank). He later earned an MBA in banking and finance from San Francisco’s Golden Gate University.
After a career spent mostly at banks in San Francisco, Russ came home to Marin—Bank of Marin, that is—in 2004. Serving as executive vice president and COO, Russ worked closely with longtime President/CEO Robert Griswold. When Griswold announced his retirement last March, Russ Colombo was named his successor. He’s been in the big chair for a few months now and so far, so good. “It’s going great,” he confirms. “The most difficult thing is allocating time to people because there are so many demands on my time. That being said, though, I’m really enjoying the responsibility, and I love the challenge.”
When he’s not at work, Russ enjoys golf, road biking and spending time with his family (wife Lynn and children, Angela, 26, and Kevin, 23). He currently serves as president of the Summer Home Park Improvement Club in Forestville, where the Colombos own a summer cabin. He also donates time to the Hanna Boys Center board of directors and the Buckelew Programs advisory council.
His is a true “local boy makes good” story.
Do you live by any motto or rule?
Treat people with respect and honesty.
If you could have a different career, what would it be? Why?
Coaching a high school basketball team. I love the game, and I like to teach the right way to play the game.
If you were to die and come back as a person, animal or thing, what would it be?
Myself. I’m very happy with my life.
If your house were on fire, what’s the one thing you would grab (assuming all family and pets are out safely)?
I’d grab my golf clubs and family pictures.
Describe your favorite relative.
My parents are an inspiration to me.
What are the best and worst sounds in the world?
The best is laughter; the worst is crying.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
That people think of me as an honest and ethical person.
What real person, dead or alive, do you wish you could be more like? Why?
A.P. Giannini [founder of Bank of America]. Look at the banking empire he built from nothing.
What time do you usually wake up in the morning? Do you need an alarm?
I usually wake up at 5:45 a.m., just before the alarm goes off.
Do you have a junk drawer? If so, what’s in it?
If it’s junk, I throw it away.
What was the most embarrassing thing you did in high school or college?
When I was a freshman at San Rafael High (a public school after attending a Catholic grammar school), I stood up to ask a question in algebra class. Everyone thought I was crazy for standing up, but that’s what the nuns had taught us to do.
What’s the most fun thing about banking?
I really enjoy all the people I meet and the businesses I learn about.
Who’s your oldest friend, how long have you known each other and what do you appreciate most about that person?
Bob Brusati and I have been friends for 40 years. He’s honest, loyal, and I know I could count on him if I needed his help.
What do you do when you have free time?
Golf, biking and spending time at our cabin on the Russian River.
What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
Go to the movies with my wife.
What is your favorite or most memorable line from a movie?
“Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn!”
If you had three wishes, what would you wish for?
First, for my children to lead happy, successful and healthy lives. Second, for peace in the world. Last, for a better golf game.
