The Gateway Story
Gateway Bank represents a return to how banking used to be, where the staff knew everyone by name and treated customers like people instead of numbers.
We bring this nostalgic approach into modern times and offer the best of both worlds: the fast, personal service of a local bank, along with the convenient, secure products and services of a large one.
Our core values and passion for serving the community drive everything we do. When you work with us, you’re treated like family, receive the one-on-one attention you deserve, and feel good about supporting a local business.
While our Arizona community bank is located in Mesa, our service extends far beyond. With a large network of fee-free ATMs, plus added conveniences like a mobile app and Remote Deposit, you can experience the Gateway difference no matter where you are.
Kind words from our customers
Gateway Bank doesn’t just say they want to help. They have set up their operations and team to actually do it.
– Pastor Cunningham, SouthGate Church
Meet our team
When you walk into Gateway, you’ll see lots of friendly faces. Get to know the people who are here to help you.
James Christensen | President & CEO
Named Mesa Citizen of the Year in 2023, President James Christensen has worked in the banking industry for over 33 years, mostly in commercial lending and management.
Prior to joining Gateway Bank in 2007, James served as President of a community bank in Kansas for a decade. Under his leadership, Gateway has grown to consistently be one of the strongest performing financial institutions in its peer group.
James grew up in the Midwest and is a graduate of Baker University. He is very active in the local community and serves on several boards and committees, including: current board member and past chair of Local First Arizona, past advisory board member of Mesa’s Economic Development Advisory Board, member of Mesa Rotary Club, board member of United Food Bank, board member of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, and chair of Mesa Financial Network.
James is also a proud father of two, and husband to his wife of over 33 years.
Gregory Niska | Chief Financial Officer
Greg has worked in the operations and financial areas of the banking industry for over 10 years. He graduated with a business degree from the University of St. Thomas then moved back to his small hometown in Northern Minnesota, where he helped manage a local community bank.
Greg relocated to Arizona in late 2020 and has been enjoying spending his spare time exploring his new home state. He previously was involved in his hometown and looks forward to discovering ways he can get involved in his new community moving forward.
Don Thompson | EVP/Chief Credit Officer
Don has over 40 years of experience in community, regional, and super regional banks, with an emphasis on lending. Don and his wife enjoy sports, family gatherings with their two grown sons, and exploring the great Arizona outdoors.
Don has a broad lending background with key areas of experience in commercial real estate, C&I lending, loan portfolio management, credit and risk management, and leadership. Prior to joining Gateway in 2011, Don was EVP/Manager of an LPO in Scottsdale for a large community bank from the Midwest. He spent 30 years in commercial banking with various banks in Kansas/Missouri in business development, loan portfolio management, administration, and management positions.
Don is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia. He has always been active in the communities where he has lived. Don served as a board member and President of a Sheltered Workshop, as well as a board or committee member for several organizations, including Chambers of Commerce, economic development councils, United Way organizations, and bankers associations.
Jennifer Stevens | SVP/Chief Operating Officer. CBAP
Jennifer has worked in the banking industry for over 20 years. She and her husband keep busy with their three sons’ sporting activities and family outdoor adventures.
Prior to joining the Gateway team in 2008, Jennifer began her career in Texas and moved to New Mexico, where she worked for two banks in a variety of positions. She also attended Western Schools of Banking.
Jennifer grew up in the White Mountains of Arizona and understands how important it is to be involved in the community. She feels it’s essential to be part of a local bank that cares for and understands the needs of its customers.
