For the eighth consecutive year Montecito Bank & Trust (MB&T) has been named a “Best Bank to Work For” by American Banker magazine.

The annual award, in its 12th year, focuses on two sources of data: an employee survey measuring overall workplace satisfaction, and a comprehensive review of each applicant bank’s policies and benefits. MB&T received the top billing in California and fourth overall in the country.

“MB&T, the largest locally owned community bank on the Central Coast, embraces a culture of professional development, innovation, teamwork, diversity, giving back and having fun,” the bank said.

“The bank’s 268 associates bring an unparalleled energy to their work both inside and outside of the office, and they are committed to making their teams and their communities the best they can be,” MB&T said.

“I am so impressed with the dedication, creativity and enthusiasm of our teams,” said Janet Garufis, CEO/chairman, who believes the bank’s associates are the heartbeat of the organization.

“Our industry has weathered some challenges the last five years, but our associates have and continue to show up in ways I could only imagine,” she said. “I am inspired by them each day and know that our late founder Michael Towbes, would be incredibly proud of their hard work and this recognition.”

,“Being named one of the best banks to work for on a national level is a testament to our dedicated team, whose commitment to excellence and our shared values creates a supportive and rewarding environment,” said Heather Ames, SVP/director of Human Resources.

“This recognition reflects not only our bank’s success but also the hard work and passion our associates bring every day to make Montecito Bank & Trust the best place work,” she said.

MB&T’s culture of giving back, a component of earning the recognition, manifests in the opportunities associates have each day to make a difference in their communities. Heading into the holiday season, a key focus is on educating residents, businesses and nonprofits about cyber-crimes and fraud scams.

Teaching at retirement homes, local housing authorities and nonprofits (in English and Spanish), MB&T associates have educated hundreds of individuals to help them avoid falling victim to identity theft, check fraud, elder financial abuse, and other crimes that affected more than 353 million people in the U.S. in 2023 alone (statistic according to Identity Theft Resource Center).

This curriculum is available throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura counties where MB&T has locations. For more, contact Brianna Aguilar at baguilar@montecito.bank.