Under the terms of the merger agreement, shareholders of United Security Bancshares received 0.4520 shares of Community West Bancshares common stock for each share they held, valuing the transaction at approximately $185.5 million, or $10.53 per share based on the closing price of Community West Bancshares stock on March 31, 2026.
The merger combines two community-focused banks, enhancing their ability to serve businesses and families across Central California. The newly formed entity will operate with approximately $5 billion in total assets and maintain full-service banking centers across 13 counties, serving 31 unique communities.
The board of directors for the combined organization will consist of fourteen members, with twelve from Community West Bancshares and two from United Security Bancshares. James J. Kim will serve as the CEO and President, while Daniel J. Doyle will take on the role of Chairman of the Board. Additionally, two members from United Security Bancshares' board, Jagroop "Jay" Gill and Dora Westerlund, will join the boards of the combined company and bank.
The merger is expected to create significant synergies, allowing the combined organization to expand its lending capacity and enhance service offerings to clients. The leadership emphasized their commitment to thoughtful integration and ensuring a seamless experience for clients as they move towards a planned systems conversion in the summer of 2026.
This merger marks the seventh acquisition for Community West Bancshares, which has a history of growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions. The leadership believes that this merger will position the company for continued growth and long-term value, reinforcing their commitment to community banking principles.
