Columbia Banking System, Inc. has finalized its acquisition of Pacific Premier Bancorp, Inc., marking a significant expansion in the western United States banking sector. The deal, announced jointly by both companies, brings together Columbia Bank and Pacific Premier Bank under the unified Columbia brand.
According to Clint Stein, President and CEO of Columbia, “Today marks an exciting milestone for our company. Columbia’s acquisition of Pacific Premier significantly accelerates our expansion in key western markets and unites two exceptional and complementary banks focused on delivering superior value to all our stakeholders. We are thrilled to welcome Pacific Premier associates, customers and communities to our company. We remain laser-focused on executing a seamless and efficient integration under the unified Columbia family of brands, in support of long-term shareholder value.”
With this transaction, Columbia’s total assets have grown to about $70 billion. The combined institution now manages approximately $50 billion in loans and $56 billion in deposits. Operations will span more than 350 locations across eight states: Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Utah and Idaho. The company plans to integrate systems and services during the first quarter of 2026.
As part of its rebranding efforts completed on September 1, 2025, Columbia Bank now operates under a single name following the transition from Umpqua Bank earlier this year. This move is intended to simplify branding across its various divisions such as Columbia Wealth Management and Columbia Private Bank.
The merger also resulted in changes at the board level. Steve Gardner—former Chairman, President and CEO of Pacific Premier—has joined Columbia’s Board as a non-executive director. M. Christian Mitchell and Jaynie Miller Studenmund have also joined as independent directors from Pacific Premier’s board. Tom Rice has become Chief Information Officer at Columbia Bank after holding that position at Pacific Premier.
At closing on August 31, 2025, each share of Pacific Premier common stock was converted into 0.9150 shares of Columbia common stock; former shareholders of Pacific Premier now represent roughly 30% ownership in the merged entity. Trading for shares of Pacific Premier ceased before Nasdaq opened on September 2.
Columbia Banking System is headquartered in Tacoma, Washington with locations throughout several western states (https://www.columbiabankingsystem.com). It offers retail banking services alongside commercial lending options such as Small Business Administration loans and equipment leasing while providing wealth management through its specialized subsidiaries.
For investor inquiries regarding this transaction or future plans for integration:
Jacquelynne “Jacque” Bohlen
ir@columbiabank.com
(503) 727-4100
