Bell Bank Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bell Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, culture, revenue, regional banking, and market leadership.

Driven by a commitment to community and client success, Bell Bank provides comprehensive financial services, fostering growth and stability through its independent ownership and deep-rooted values.

Leadership Roles at Bell Bank

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Michael Solberg
  • Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares - Blake Nelson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joan Ament
  • Phoenix President & Arizona Banking Director - Kyle Kennedy
  • Market President - Kimberly Ellingson
  • President-Northwest Metro - Mitch Joyce
  • President (Alexandria) - Jason Pohlen
  • President - Woodbury - Chris Klohn
  • Chief of Staff & Chief Culture Officer & Executive VP - Julie Peterson Klein
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer & Director - David Canton
  • Michael Solberg - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Solberg, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Bell Bank, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the independently-owned financial institution. Overseeing all facets of the bank's operations, Solberg ensures alignment with the company's mission of providing a full line of financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the bank's strong market presence across North Dakota and beyond. By fostering a culture of client-centricity and community engagement, Michael Solberg solidifies Bell Bank's position as a trusted financial partner. The executive's focus remains on sustainable expansion and upholding the bank's foundational principles established since its inception.
    Michael Solberg

    Blake Nelson - Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares

    Blake Nelson, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares at Bell Bank, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. Nelson oversees all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions, ensuring robust management of assets and liabilities related to savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages. This critical role involves managing capital allocation, investor relations, and financial risk mitigation to support Bell Bank's long-term stability and growth. By providing strategic financial insights, Blake Nelson enables informed decision-making across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is fundamental to maintaining the bank's strong financial footing and expanding its market reach.
    Blake Nelson

    Joan Ament - Chief Operating Officer

    Joan Ament, the Chief Operating Officer at Bell Bank, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and effectiveness of the bank's extensive financial services. Ament oversees the critical functions that support the delivery of savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, ensuring seamless client experiences. This role involves optimizing internal processes and resource allocation to support the bank's growth objectives across its North Dakota base and expanding markets. By driving operational excellence, Joan Ament ensures that Bell Bank can effectively scale its services and maintain high standards of performance. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight is vital for the bank's continued success in the competitive financial landscape.

    Kyle Kennedy - Phoenix President & Arizona Banking Director

    Kyle Kennedy, the Phoenix President & Arizona Banking Director at Bell Bank, leads the bank's strategic expansion and operational management within the Arizona market. Kennedy oversees the development and delivery of Bell Bank's comprehensive financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, tailored to the Phoenix region. This role involves building strong local relationships and driving market share growth through targeted banking initiatives. By establishing a robust presence in Arizona, Kyle Kennedy extends Bell Bank's reach and reinforces its commitment to serving diverse communities. The Phoenix President's leadership is key to the bank's regional success and client acquisition efforts.

    Kimberly Ellingson - Market President

    Kimberly Ellingson, the Market President at Bell Bank, directs the strategic growth and client engagement within a specific market territory. Ellingson oversees the provision of Bell Bank's full spectrum of financial services, encompassing savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, ensuring alignment with local community needs. This leadership position involves fostering strong client relationships and driving business development initiatives to enhance the bank's regional presence. By championing local market strategies, Kimberly Ellingson strengthens Bell Bank's connection with its customer base. The Market President's focus on localized service delivery is integral to the bank's overall expansion and client retention.

    Mitch Joyce - President-Northwest Metro

    Mitch Joyce, the President-Northwest Metro at Bell Bank, leads the strategic direction and operational oversight for the Northwest Metro region. Joyce manages the delivery of Bell Bank's comprehensive financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, to clients within this key metropolitan area. This role involves cultivating market growth, strengthening client relationships, and ensuring the bank's services meet the specific demands of the Northwest Metro community. By driving regional initiatives, Mitch Joyce enhances Bell Bank's presence and service capabilities in this vital economic zone. The President-Northwest Metro's leadership is essential for expanding the bank's footprint and client base.
    Mitch Joyce

    Jason Pohlen - President (Alexandria)

    Jason Pohlen, the President (Alexandria) at Bell Bank, directs the strategic operations and client services for the Alexandria market. Pohlen oversees the provision of Bell Bank's full range of financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, ensuring localized support for the Alexandria community. This leadership position focuses on driving market penetration, building strong customer loyalty, and expanding the bank's service offerings within the region. By championing the Alexandria market, Jason Pohlen reinforces Bell Bank's commitment to community-focused banking. The President (Alexandria)'s expertise is critical for enhancing local engagement and achieving regional growth objectives.
    Jason Pohlen

    Chris Klohn - President - Woodbury

    Chris Klohn, the President - Woodbury at Bell Bank, leads the strategic initiatives and client relations for the Woodbury market. Klohn manages the delivery of Bell Bank's comprehensive financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages, ensuring tailored support for Woodbury residents and businesses. This role emphasizes driving market growth, fostering deep client connections, and expanding the bank's service portfolio within the local area. By focusing on the Woodbury region, Chris Klohn strengthens Bell Bank's community presence and service capabilities. The President - Woodbury's leadership is vital for achieving regional expansion and enhancing client satisfaction.
    Chris Klohn

    Julie Peterson Klein - Chief of Staff & Chief Culture Officer & Executive VP

    Julie Peterson Klein, the Chief of Staff & Chief Culture Officer & Executive VP at Bell Bank, shapes the organizational culture and enhances strategic alignment across the bank. Peterson Klein oversees initiatives that foster a positive and productive work environment, directly impacting the delivery of financial services like savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages. This multifaceted role involves supporting executive leadership, driving key strategic projects, and ensuring the bank's core values are embedded in all operations. By championing the company culture, Julie Peterson Klein strengthens employee engagement and client relationships. The Chief Culture Officer's influence is pivotal in maintaining Bell Bank's reputation and operational cohesion.
    Julie Peterson Klein

    David Canton - Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer & Director

    David Canton, the Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer & Director at Bell Bank, spearheads revenue generation and commercial growth strategies for the financial institution. Canton directs efforts to expand the bank's client base and increase revenue streams from its full suite of financial services, including savings and checking accounts, personal loans, and mortgages. This leadership position involves identifying new market opportunities and optimizing sales processes to drive profitability. By focusing on revenue maximization, David Canton ensures Bell Bank's sustained financial success and market competitiveness. The Chief Revenue Officer's strategic initiatives are crucial for the bank's ongoing expansion and economic vitality.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Banking

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bell Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bell Bank?
    Bell Bank is led by Michael Solberg (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Blake Nelson (Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares) and Joan Ament (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Bell Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bell Bank includes leaders such as Michael Solberg (President & Chief Executive Officer), Blake Nelson (Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares), Joan Ament (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bell Bank have?
    Bell Bank has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bell Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bell Bank includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, State Bankshares, Chief Operating Officer, Phoenix President & Arizona Banking Director, Market President.