Great place to work, except for the top down return to office mandate - Senior Officer Columbia Bank Employee Review

4.0
Sep 7, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Depending on the team, Columbia Bank is a great place to work. Most of the management genuinely care for their team members. Many teams support curiosity, so continuing education and increasing business skills is encouraged, so there's opportunity to grow as a professional.

Cons

Following the Umpqua/Columbia merger, the executive team decided to require approximately 95% of the workforce to return to office-based work, including some roles that were hired as fully remote during the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement was made the Monday after an associate survey concluded, which raised concerns among some associates about the timing of the decision. The return-to-office policy significantly impacted many associates' work arrangements, leading to the departure of some talent. The executive team's explanations for the policy evolved over time, contributing to skepticism among some associates. Approximately one year later, a subsequent associate survey was conducted, but no public acknowledgment of associate's concerns regarding the shift in company culture was considered. Not even a single remake.

Explore other reviews about Columbia Bank

5.0
Jun 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Columbia Banking System has been a great place to work for thus far. The environment is enjoyable and the company itself is virtuous.

Cons

There is quite a bit of downtime in-between customers, but this is also a pro because it means there is ample opportunity to get more customers through the door and banking with us.

2.0
Jun 25, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great People, generous Vacation and Sick time, and decent facilities.

Cons

Poor communication from leadership. Typical "Good ol' Boys Club" type politics, and too many convoluted policies and procedures to keep up. Hard workers are awarded with more work, while others are allowed to skate by under the radar.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All