“To make the environment so that everyone can be the best that they can be.”

Ken Duncan is a highly accomplished executive with over 30 years of experience in finance, risk management, governance, and corporate strategy. His distinguished career spans leadership roles across financial institutions, investment firms, and nonprofit organizations. Ken has a deep understanding of capital markets, credit risk, portfolio management, and structured finance. He has held executive and board positions in organizations that have shaped the financial landscape, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex economic environments and drive sustainable growth.

Ken currently serves as a board member of Hiawatha National Bank, where he has contributed to the institution’s long-term strategic vision since 2011. Previously, he served as president of the board at People Incorporated, a leading nonprofit in mental health services, reinforcing his commitment to industries that impact communities at large. His tenure at Homeownership Preservation Foundation as chief financial officer further highlights his dedication to financial stability, where he played a pivotal role in improving homeownership sustainability before retiring in 2017.

Throughout his career, Ken has demonstrated a unique ability to balance financial risk with strategic opportunity. As chairman of the board at Castle Peak Capital Advisors, he provided leadership in asset management and investment strategy. His executive experience as managing director at GMAC – Residential Capital Corp. and Capital Company of America showcases his expertise in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios, credit risk assessment, and regulatory compliance in the banking sector.

Ken’s early career was shaped by his roles as senior vice president at Cargill Financial Services and vice president at First Bank System, where he honed his financial acumen in asset management and risk mitigation. His deep understanding of financial structures, market analysis, and corporate governance has allowed him to successfully guide organizations through economic cycles and regulatory changes.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ken has international exposure, having lived in London from 1986 to 1990 and worked for an international trading firm. His global perspective has equipped him with a strong cross-border financial strategy and an understanding of international markets. He is also currently developing his Spanish language skills to further enhance his ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Ken is widely recognized for his expertise in finance, governance, risk management, and leadership, with numerous professional endorsements from colleagues and industry leaders. His strategic thinking and ability to implement best practices have made him a sought-after advisor in boardrooms and financial institutions. His leadership philosophy is rooted in fostering environments where talented individuals can thrive and drive collective success.

He has spoken at various conferences on finance, mortgages, and risk management, sharing his insights on best practices and market trends. While he has not presented publicly since 2005, his wealth of experience continues to influence decision-making at the executive level. His ability to synthesize complex financial data into actionable strategies has made him a key asset to the organizations he has served.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Ken is passionate about traveling, hunting with his dogs in the fall, and supporting his wife’s art career. His personal interests reflect his values of exploration, discipline, and creativity—qualities that also define his leadership approach. He believes in lifelong learning and embraces change as an opportunity for growth.

Ken’s personal mission is to create environments where individuals and organizations can reach their highest potential. He is currently seeking additional board opportunities where he can collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive governance excellence and strategic transformation. His independent thinking, openness to learning, and dedication to best practices make him an invaluable asset to any organization looking for strong financial oversight and visionary leadership.

Character:

Ken is a principled leader who values integrity, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence. His ability to create environments where individuals and teams can thrive sets him apart as a trusted executive and board member.

Knowledge:

With extensive expertise in finance, risk management, governance, and capital markets, Ken brings deep industry knowledge that allows him to make informed, strategic decisions that drive long-term success.

Strategic:

Ken has a proven track record of implementing best practices and guiding organizations through complex financial landscapes. His ability to balance risk and opportunity ensures sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

Communication:

An experienced executive and board member, Ken effectively translates complex financial concepts into clear, actionable strategies. His ability to engage with diverse stakeholders makes him a strong communicator and trusted advisor.