Former Ambassador Jeff Flake Elected Chair of World Trade Center Utah
Zions Bank CEO Paul Burdiss Joins Board of Directors
SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 16, 2024) — World Trade Center Utah (WTC Utah) announces former U.S. Ambassador Jeff Flake as the new chair of its Board of Directors. Flake, a former U.S. Senator, completed his ambassadorship to Türkiye on September 1.
Flake’s career spans over two decades of public service, including his time in the U.S. Senate representing Arizona from 2013 to 2019, where he served on the Foreign Relations, Energy and Natural Resources, and Judiciary committees. His international experience, particularly as U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye, aligns perfectly with WTC Utah’s mission to elevate Utah companies on the global stage and drive economic resilience.
“I’m thrilled to join WTC Utah,” said Flake. “Utah has strong global partnerships, and its innovative business ecosystem and entrepreneurial spirit create opportunities for international expansion. I’m confident that we can enhance Utah’s position as a key player in the global economy and create lasting opportunities for business across the state.”
In addition to Flake’s appointment, WTC Utah welcomes Paul Burdiss, president and CEO of Zions Bank, to its Board of Directors. Burdiss, the former CFO of Zions Bancorporation (NASDAQ: ZION), succeeds Scott Anderson on the board. Anderson, a founding member and board chair for 12 years, fostered a deep, long-lasting partnership between Zions Bank and WTC Utah. This collaboration has significantly benefited Utah’s community, through both global business development and local initiatives.
“For more than three decades, Scott has made milestone contributions to the state of Utah,” said Burdiss. “Under his leadership, Zions Bank has long recognized the importance of global trade to Utah’s economy, and I am particularly excited to now do my part to contribute to WTC Utah’s mission. By helping businesses access international markets, we not only create opportunities for individual companies — we strengthen our entire community and solidify Utah’s position in the global marketplace.”
“Paul joining WTC Utah’s board marks an exciting new chapter in our partnership with Zions Bank, building on the strong foundation laid by Scott,” said Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO of WTC Utah. “Ambassador Flake’s appointment as chair reinforces our ongoing commitment to combining diplomatic expertise with business acumen. Together, they will enhance our ability to create new global opportunities for Utah companies, continuing our established focus on the intersection of commerce and international relations.”
The Board of Directors is a voting body that serves as the legal entity with fiduciary responsibility for the organization. Both Jon Huntsman, the outgoing chair, and Anderson will remain active on WTC Utah’s board as chairs emeriti. In these positions, they will provide ongoing strategic guidance and ensure a smooth leadership transition.
For additional media inquiries or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Tiffeny Yen-Louie
tyen@wtcutah.com
M +1 (801) 918-7871
ABOUT WORLD TRADE CENTER UTAH
World Trade Center Utah is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to accelerate growth for Utah companies through our global network, programs, and services. Officially joining the World Trade Center Association in 2007, the organization has helped companies throughout the state actualize their global potential and was recognized by the U.S. President with the 2021 President’s “E” Award for Export Service — the highest recognition any U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports. For more information, follow @WTCUtah on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
About zions bank
Zions Bank is Utah’s oldest financial institution and is the only local bank with a statewide distribution of branches operating 95 full-service branches. Zions Bank also operates 26 branches in Idaho and Wyoming. In addition to offering a wide range of traditional banking services, Zions Bank is also a leader in small business lending. Founded in 1873, Zions Bank has been serving the communities of Utah for more than 150 years. Additional information is available at www.zionsbank.com. Zions Bank is a division of Zions Bancorporation N.A., Member FDIC.
