Bryan Biederman has been on the board since its origin in 2013; he was appointed by Mayor Tom Hanafan. As vice president of First National Bank, Biederman provides the board with a financial perspective.
Why did you choose to serve on the board?
I love Council Bluffs. Our city is the best-kept secret in the Midwest. Having the opportunity to help attract visitors to our community while also growing the economy is an honor.
What have you enjoyed about being on the board?
Without question watching the CBCVB grow into an independent and strong organization. The growth from where we began to today is phenomenal and is the direct result of the hard work of many people. The board has been fortunate to have very strong, consistent leadership at the CBCVB, including both Kathy Fiscus and Mark Eckman. Our board of directors are a great bunch of hardworking volunteers who dedicate countless hours to help guide the CBCVB.
How long have you been a resident of Council Bluffs (or worked here)?
With the exception of five years on active duty military service, I have lived in southwest Iowa my entire life. I couldn’t dream of living anywhere else. I’ve worked for First National Bank since 1996 and I’ve been in the Air Force since 1991 (both active and Reserve).
What does this town and its tourism industry mean to you?
Council Bluffs is the embodiment of the American dream: a hardworking city with a strong sense of community, a strong work ethic, and great stuff to do. In the past 10 years, we added shopping, dining, entertainment, and employment—making it almost unnecessary to cross the river for anything. I can’t imagine a better place anywhere in the world to raise a family. The tourism industry gives us the ability to tell our story by sharing Council Bluffs with visitors and helps us to continue to grow.
What has the CBCVB achieved since you’ve been on the board?
The two achievements that stick out are number one: separation from the Chamber, and number two: hiring Mark Eckman. The early years of the board were tumultuous and involved making some tough decisions. Looking back, separating from the Chamber and bringing Mark on board were key to our early success and really set us up for the future. Our board really came together and made the necessary decisions. The result was a strong CBCVB that I would put up against any in the state of Iowa.
What do you hope to see the CBCVB achieve in your time as a board member?
The three big benchmarks I can’t wait to see in the future:
1. Completion/move in to the new facility
2. An increase in budget
3. Increased tourism in CB
Is there anything else you’d like us to share with our industry partners about yourself?
My wife Cindy and my three sons John Ross (13), Nathaniel (12), and Thomas (5) love to cheer for the Iowa Hawkeyes!
Biederman and his family are pictured in the photo above admiring an Eagle of Honor.
