President, Chief Executive
Hanmi Financial Corp.
This is Lee’s sixth year leading Hanmi Bank, based in Koreatown. She is the firm’s first female chief executive in its more than 40 year history. During her time as CEO, she has increased the bank’s assets by 36% and diversified its loan portfolio.
Lee has also been integral to growing Hanmi’s U.S. Subsidiaries of Korean Companies business initiative by opening the bank’s first international office in Seoul, South Korea at the end of last year.
The office further supports South Korean-based companies doing business in the U.S. or looking to expand operations here by offering in-person and timely communication.
Additionally in this role, Lee has overseen the launches of professional development programs, the Hanmi Credit Trainee Program and the Hanmi Management Leadership Program, as well as the Hanmi Dream Scholarship which provides educational support to underprivileged students, including foster youth and victims of domestic violence.
Before joining Hanmi, Lee held a number of positions at BBCN Bank and BBCN Bancorp.
YEARS ON LA500: 7
