Blair Oklobzija

Blair Oklobzija has worked in many roles during his career in the finance industry – credit analyst, portfolio manager, commercial lender, and now, head of lending. The variety of work is what he enjoys most about being a lender at 21st Century Bank.

“I’ve always liked math, but I like getting to know people – the relationship piece,” he said. “We have all kinds of people! It’s a huge variety – that’s what makes it fun.”

Blair started his finance career by luck, he says.  An acquaintance needed a credit analyst and knew Blair had a degree in finance. He started at the bottom, learning how to move numbers around and see what they mean. In the process, he discovered a real connection with the job.

Throughout his career, Blair has broadened his knowledge and experience. Today he’s an expert on small businesses and professional practices. He says part of delivering quality customer service is leveraging the experiences he has. By knowing the industry, he’s able to effectively problem-solve issues that other financial institutions might not be interested in tackling, like taking on a customer who had recently purchased a company that was failing. Blair and 21st Century Bank were able to help them restructure their balance sheet with an SBA loan – and rather than shuttering after 50 years of business – the company was able to net over one million dollars last year.

Blair wants people to know that even if their story isn’t destined to be an overwhelming success story – his style of customer service will always be backed by straightforward honesty. As a lender who is focused on building relationships that last, it’s about creating a positive experience.

Blair lives near White Bear Lake with his wife and children. In his free time, he enjoys golfing and coaching baseball.