All of the officers and leaders at Ascent Bank have strong ties to our local Montana communities. They are dedicated to providing excellent banking services to customers and strengthening the community through their work at the bank.
As CEO, Loren is the key figure in the execution and growth plans for the organization. He has a deep background in banking leadership, financing, and operations. Loren believes that community banks are an integral part of our communities and is committed to making Montana a wonderful place to live and work. Loren has called Helena home since elementary school days. He serves in leadership roles on the boards of St. Peter’s Health, Sleeping Giant Flying Club, and the Montana Independent Bankers. Loren also serves on the board of The West Mont Foundation and in a variety of volunteer roles for the Boy Scouts of America. When he’s not at work or volunteering, you may find Loren skiing, skydiving or enjoying the outdoors in countless other ways.
NMLS #1700534
A Helena native, Tom began his banking career in 2012. Since that time, he has been engaged in a wide array of bank operations including lending, finance, compliance, management, marketing, and business development. When he’s not at work or spending time with his family, Tom can usually be found outside on the trails, in the mountains or traveling. He serves on boards for the Helena Regional Airport Authority and Montana Community Foundation. He also serves on the loan committee for Montana Business Assistance Connection.
NMLS # 997811
A native Montanan, Tyler is committed to helping businesses and individuals navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring they have access to lending solutions tailored to their unique needs. His ability to balance credit risk with opportunity has made him a trusted partner for Montana businesses seeking sustainable growth.
Tyler’s deep understanding of portfolio management, regulatory compliance, and market-specific lending strategies allows him to offer insightful, customized financial solutions that contribute to the economic vitality of Montana.
When he is not in the office, he enjoys spending time with his family and embracing all that Helena and the surrounding areas have to offer.
NMLS # 759983
Brock, a Montana native, began his banking career in 1991. Brock manages daily bank operations, oversees bank wires, BSA, and accounts payables, prepares Call report schedules, performs board reporting, maintains balance sheets, and helps run bank operations for the Ascent Bank team.
Brock was chosen to attend the 2024 FBI Citizens Academy Program and recently graduated from this selective program.
In his free time, you are likely to find Brock fly fishing or camping in the Montana outdoors or cheering on the Bighorn Hockey team. Brock also volunteers with the local chapter of Ducks Unlimited.
Kate Robbins is a Carroll College graduate with a degree in Finance. She began her career at Ascent Bank as a college student, starting as a Teller/CSR and advancing to roles as a Loan Processor and Senior Credit Analyst. Over the years, Kate has gained extensive experience in various areas of banking, with a focus on Operations and Information Technology. Her expertise and leadership led her to current roles as Senior Operations Officer and Information Technology Officer.
Outside of work, Kate is an avid downhill skier and is a coach for the Great Divide Ski Team. During warmer weather, she enjoys going to concerts, traveling, and having adventures with friends and family.
Megan Murgel has a long work history with First Security Bank of Helena, now Ascent Bank. She started working for the bank on a part time basis while she was in high school. After graduating with a degree from the University of Montana – Western, she became a full-time bank employee. Megan has worked in a variety of positions including Teller, Loan Processor, Credit Analyst, Consumer Loan Officer, and is the Branch Manager of the 11th Avenue location.
For fun, Megan hikes on a regular basis and spends the summer enjoying water sports.
NMLS # 1972938
Laura Benson began her banking career over 13 years ago, with an emphasis on Regulatory Compliance for the last 9 years. Laura has worked in various compliance roles, such as: compliance officer, independent compliance auditor, and compliance consultant. With experience locally and nationally alongside banks small and large, she brings a wealth of compliance knowledge to our team. Laura also has served on the Montana Banker's Association's Compliance Committee since 2021.
Laura has called Montana home since 2014 and keeps busy with her husband and two children where they enjoy camping, biking, hiking, and travelling anywhere with a warm, sunny beach.