Bravera Bank
Kathy Torske is the president and CEO of Bravera Wealth in Bismarck, North Dakota. Her rise from a part-time bank employee while in high school to leading multi-division financial organizations is a testament to her work ethic and leadership acumen. She's been described as "one of the most well-liked and respected people in the company." She is not afraid to tackle challenges head-on and does so with dignity and respect, consistently earning admiration and loyalty.She exemplifies leadership through her integrity, humility and sense of responsibility. Her leadership style is defined by transparency, approachability and an innate curiosity that drives continual learning and organizational growth. Torske builds trust at every level, a nominator wrote, whether with clients, colleagues or the broader community.
After working in banking throughout college and then as a CPA at Eide Bailly, she joined Bravera Wealth in 2005 (then known as American Trust Center) as an administrative officer and steadily rose through the ranks. Torske became CEO in 2011, when the organization managed approximately $135 million in assets. Under her leadership, Bravera Wealth has grown to manage more than $2.4 billion in assets and expanded into new markets across Minot, Fargo, Montana and Minnesota.
Torske was asked to take on the additional role of leading Bravera Insurance as interim president/CEO in 2021. She guided that division for more than two years until a permanent leader was found for the position. She earned the respect and trust of the entire organization by assuming the interim role.
Throughout her tenure, she has been instrumental in shaping the operational foundation of Bravera. She implemented key policies, audit structures and corporate governance strategies.
Torske's commitment to her community is evident through years of active service with organizations such as Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where she's served on the church council in several officer roles, as well as the treasurer of the Legacy High School boys basketball team. She's also been involved in the Bismarck Optimist Club, Western Dakota Estate Council, Girl Scouts financial committees, and volunteer efforts with St. Alexius Medical Center and United Way.
Her industry involvement includes serving on the board of the North Dakota Bankers Association from 2018-2022, and as chair from 2022-2023.
Torske is a role model for balancing professional excellence with genuine care for her community. Whether volunteering, mentoring professionals or leading statewide industry groups, her impact is far-reaching and heartfelt.