Built on Trust: How Relationships Create Career and Business Growth

What makes someone trust you enough to put your name forward?

Join Ascend NorCal and Withum for an evening of practical insights and networking on the relationships behind career opportunities, client referrals, and business growth.

The conversation will explore how to:

• Earn credibility and build a reputation others are willing to stand behind.

• Strengthen relationships before you need advice, support, or an introduction.

• Create value for others that opens possibilities for collaboration and mutual growth.

Speakers

• Christopher Chu, CPA is a Senior Manager at Withum, where he provides audit, accounting, and advisory services to private and public companies across various stages of growth. He advises organizations on financial reporting, regulatory compliance, capital transactions, and complex business matters. In addition to serving clients, Chris is actively involved in business development and relationship-building throughout the Northern California business community. He is passionate about connecting entrepreneurs, executives, investors, and advisors while helping organizations navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their growth objectives

• Charu Bhola Gorrepati is a Managing Director in BMO’s Commercial Banking group, Northern California, where she leads the Emerging Middle Market business across the Pacific Bay Area. She partners with growth-oriented middle market companies and business leaders to help accelerate growth, navigate complexity, and achieve long-term success through tailored financial strategies and deep relationship management.

  Charu brings a diverse background across commercial banking, treasury management, and relationship leadership, with deep expertise in helping businesses scale and thrive. Known for her relationship-driven approach, she brings together the right expertise across BMO to help clients navigate increasingly complex business environments while delivering thoughtful, growth-oriented solutions.

  With deep roots in the Bay Area market, Charu is passionate about supporting the businesses and communities that power the region’s economy. She believes the strongest banking relationships are built on trust, transparency, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to growth.

Connect with fellow professionals, exchange experiences, and leave with practical ideas for strengthening the relationships that matter to your next step.

Event Time Zone: Pacific

Please read the Ascend Terms of Registration and Participation carefully.