CEO, FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK
WHY: Fourth generation in family-owned bank that was founded in 1907 by great-grandfather C.J. Walker. Daniel began as entry-level teller in 1968. Renovated Long Beach main office for 100-year celebration in 2007 that great-grandfather built in 1923. Orange County has 13 branches with 519 employees and $3.6B in deposits.
RECENT: Daughter Christine Walker- Bowman and nephew Nolan Nicholson
joined company, bringing family involvement to five generations.
NOTABLE: Learned to love polo from his father and grandfather. Sports 5-goal handicap, placing him on professional level.
QUOTABLE: “Your customers—and that service you owe them—should be your priority every day.”
