Raju Patel has been named a finalist for the 2026 9NEWS For-Profit Leader of the Year award. The recognition is part of the Leading Colorado program, which highlights individuals who are contributing to the state’s future through innovation, service, and impact in various sectors. Finalists are selected in three categories: For-Profit Leader of the Year, Nonprofit Leader of the Year, and Public Sector Leader of the Year.
The For-Profit Leader of the Year category acknowledges executives and entrepreneurs who show strong leadership, ethical business practices, and a commitment to Colorado’s economic and civic well-being.
Patel recently retired as Market Executive for Global Commercial Banking at Bank of America in Colorado. In this role, he led a team that provided services such as investment banking, credit solutions, treasury management, investment management, and personal banking to middle market companies with annual revenues between $50 million and $2 billion.
Patel began his career at Bank of America in 1985. Over his tenure, he worked in strategic planning, finance, credit products, and relationship management. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Illinois and an MBA from DePaul University. Patel is also a FINRA registered Principal with Series 7, 24, and 63 securities licenses.
His community involvement includes serving as Board Member and former Chair for the Downtown Denver Partnership Management Group. He is also on the boards of The Food Bank of the Rockies and Denver Art Museum Foundation. In 2021, Patel was named a Most Admired CEO by the Denver Business Journal.
Patel lives in lower downtown Denver with his wife Lisa. They have three adult children.
