Movers & Shakers: Elijah Gray, Travis Edlund, Michael Burke, & Robert Zazula

January 15, 2026

Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher

Movers & Shakers: Elijah Gray, Travis Edlund, Michael Burke, & Robert Zazula

Elijah Gray Named Senior Vice President, SBA Market Executive at Banesco

Elijah Gray serves as Senior Vice President, SBA Market Executive at Banesco USA, an independent Florida state-chartered bank serving the South Florida and Puerto Rican markets. In her role, Gray oversees the national SBA lending division, where she is leading a team to provide financing solutions to small- and medium-sized businesses nationwide.

Previously, she held executive roles at a variety of financial institutions such as Managing Director of SBA & USDA Banking at Hanover Bank (formerly Savoy Bank); partner at consulting firm B2B CFO; Co-Founder, COO and CFO at MileStone Bank; and COO, CFO & Bank Secrecy Officer at Earthstar Bank.

Drawing from her experience starting, owning, managing, growing, and selling multiple businesses – including co-founding a commercial bank – Gray brings a unique perspective to her role. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges and opportunities business owners face makes her especially well-equipped to guide clients through the process of securing bank financing and positioning their companies for growth.

A native of Philadelphia, Gray is fluent in English and proficient in French. She is actively involved in her professional and local communities, serving as a board member of WomenMove, Inc. – a human rights organization whose primary mission is to empower women and young girls through education. Previously, she served on the boards of the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, Doylestown Athletic Association, and JEVS Human Services. Gray holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Northeastern University and an MBA in Business Administration from New England College of Business.

PlainsCapital Bank Appoints Travis Edlund as San Antonio Region Chairman, Succeeding Mike Molak

PlainsCapital Bank announced early January that Travis Edlund, a lifelong San Antonian and second‑generation San Antonio banker, has been named San Antonio Region Chairman, effective immediately. Edlund succeeds Mike Molak, who retired on Jan. 2, 2026, after more than 40 years in the banking industry.

“I am excited to join PlainsCapital as it begins a new chapter in San Antonio,” Edlund says. “I look forward to working with our talented team to elevate PlainsCapital’s market presence and expand our commitment to serving local businesses and families.”

Edlund brings more than 20 years of experience in the community banking industry. Most recently, Edlund served as San Antonio Market President for Amarillo National Bank, where he launched its San Antonio presence in 2020, meaningfully growing the loan and deposit portfolio in the market. Prior to Amarillo National Bank, he spent time with some of San Antonio’s most established banks including senior commercial lending roles at Jefferson Bank, Broadway Bank, and IBC Bank, where he built and managed diverse business and commercial real estate lending and deposit portfolios.

“Travis’ experience building commercial portfolios, developing bankers, deepening community ties, and his desire to build a meaningful franchise in his hometown aligns squarely with PlainsCapital’s culture, values and vision,” says Brian Heflin, President of PlainsCapital Bank.

Michael Burke Added to American Momentum Bank as Vice President, SBA Business Development Officer

“Michael’s extensive SBA lending experience and strong network in South Florida make him an exceptional addition to our team,” says Patrick Fenech, senior vice president/managing director of SBA lending at American Momentum Bank. “He brings a client-centered approach and deep product expertise that align with our mission to deliver tailored lending solutions that help businesses grow. We are fortunate to have him.”

“I was drawn to American Momentum Bank’s strong balance sheet, experienced leadership and commitment to relationship-driven lending,” Burke says. “My goal is to expand our SBA lending presence throughout Florida by helping small business owners secure capital for growth, acquisitions and real estate ownership.”

Burke is a seasoned SBA lending professional with more than a decade of experience in SBA 7(a), 504 and commercial real estate financing. Based in Fort Lauderdale, he offers a deep understanding of credit analysis, deal structuring and client relationship management. Prior to joining American Momentum Bank, Burke served as SVP, SBA relationship manager at Locality Bank and VP, SBA/commercial lender at Paradise Bank. Over his career, he has originated and closed more than $100 million in SBA and commercial loans.

Burke holds a bachelor’s degree from Broward College. He currently serves on the board of the Potential Christian Academy Business Network and is an active member of the Florida Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (FLAGGL). He also participates in several professional and civic organizations across South Florida, supporting local entrepreneurs and small business development initiatives.

Robert Zazula Joins Harvest as VP Business Development Officer

Robert Zazula joins Harvest as VP Business Development Officer with more than 25 years of SBA expertise and a career spanning every phase of the lending process. Originally from Philadelphia, he began his SBA journey at BBVA Compass in 1999, spending 22 years in roles across Origination, Underwriting, Funding, Closing, Servicing, and Liquidation. His comprehensive background gives him a deep understanding of SBA workflows and a strong commitment to guiding borrowers from start to finish.

Zazula holds a BBA in Management from Amberton University. Outside the office, he enjoys playing hockey and riding his 2011 Harley Davidson Softail Classic. He has been married for over 35 years and is a proud father of two.