In Sacramento’s competitive banking community, Stephen Cairns has built a reputation for leadership that starts with listening — listening to clients, colleagues and the region Cairns has called home for most of his career. Recently named senior vice president and commercial market executive for Bank of Marin, Cairns is helping guide the Bank’s growth across the Sacramento Valley and foothills by combining local insight with genuine connection.
For Cairns, Sacramento isn’t just another market; it’s where his roots run deep. After nearly two decades working in both regional and national banks, he’s learned how leadership shifts with scale and structure.
Ideation, authenticity and the ability to perform — as if it’s your own company or family on the line — are the things that build trust.”— Stephen Cairns, Senior VP and Commercial, Market Executive
“I’ve worked for banks with assets ranging from under $1.5 billion to over $3 trillion,” he says. “I chose a bank that’s big enough to support middle-market businesses and investors, but still small enough to deliver personal service and real relationships.”
At the nearly $4 billion Bank of Marin, Cairns focuses on growth that feels authentic and built on trust and mutual success. The Bank’s flat organizational style encourages straightforward, common-sense thinking.
“I try to lead with honesty and authenticity,” he says, “and to be selective about where we put our time so that every relationship matters.”
His approach reflects the same values that have guided Bank of Marin from the start: authentic relationships, thoughtful growth and doing what’s right for clients and communities.
When meeting with local business owners, Cairns keeps things simple.
“You ask where they’ve come from, where they want to go and then you really listen,” he says. “It’s that curiosity that helps uncover challenges and reveal opportunities that might otherwise be missed.”
From there, he works with clients and their advisors to find practical ways forward.
That mindset defines his approach to leadership as well.
“Ideation, authenticity and the ability to perform — as if it’s your own company or family on the line — are the things that build trust,” Cairns says.
With that focus in mind, he is helping chart Bank of Marin’s next chapter in Sacramento: steady growth, meaningful partnerships and a clear commitment to the people behind the progress.
