Oak Valley Bancorp Celebrates Recognition as One of the Best Places to Work in the Central Valley

In a significant achievement, Oak Valley Community Bank (OVCB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oak Valley Bancorp (NASDAQ: OVLY), has been honored as one of the *2026 Best Places to Work in the Central Valley*. This accolade is based on comprehensive employee feedback and an independent evaluation conducted by Best Companies Group. The recognition not only highlights OVCB's commitment to fostering a positive work environment but also reflects its substantial growth in workforce size, as acknowledged by Opportunity Stanislaus for “Growing the Economy” through a workforce increase of 10% or more throughout 2025.

Chris Courtney, Chief Executive Officer of Oak Valley Community Bank, expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it to the collaborative and developmental culture embedded within the organization. “Being recognized again in 2026 is a testament to how deeply engrained collaboration and team development are in our culture," said Courtney. He emphasized that the feedback from employees is a vital indicator of the supportive, challenging, and empowering workplace environment that OVCB strives to create. Courtney concluded his statement by highlighting the meaningful work the team provides for customers and the communities they serve, showcasing the bank's dedication to community engagement and employee satisfaction.

Oak Valley Community Bank is honored to stand alongside notable 2026 recipients, including leading firms such as Grimbleby Coleman Advisors & Accountants, Black Water Consulting Engineers, Boyett Petroleum, and several others. This recognition underscores OVCB’s reputation not just as a bank but as a community-oriented institution that values its employees and their contributions to the local economy.

The *Best Places to Work: Central Valley* initiative is an annual survey and recognition program aimed at highlighting organizations that create exceptional workplace experiences and foster strong employee engagement. Administered by Best Companies Group and presented by Opportunity Stanislaus, this program employs a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation process. This includes both employer evaluations and confidential employee feedback, with final rankings determined through a rigorous third-party analysis, ensuring an unbiased assessment of workplace quality.

Opportunity Stanislaus is a regional economic development organization focused on enhancing the economic vitality of Stanislaus County. By supporting business growth, entrepreneurship, and investment, Opportunity Stanislaus plays a critical role in driving the local economy forward. This partnership aligns with Oak Valley Community Bank’s mission to contribute positively to the community.

Oak Valley Bancorp operates Oak Valley Community Bank and its Eastern Sierra Community Bank division, offering a comprehensive range of loan and deposit services tailored for individuals and small businesses. With 19 conveniently located branches across the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra regions—including cities like Oakdale, Turlock, Stockton, and Modesto—OVCB continues to expand its reach while maintaining a strong commitment to customer service.

In conclusion, the recognition received by Oak Valley Community Bank not only reflects its employee-centric culture but also positions it as a leader in the financial sector within the Central Valley. As the bank continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to providing exceptional service to its customers and fostering a positive work environment for its employees.