Many see Miami as an international city that offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, but to Apollo Bank Chairman and CEO Eddy Arriola, Miami is a city of opportunity.
Born and raised in a Cuban household, Arriola looked to his parents to learn the secrets of success. By observing his parent’s passion and work ethic, he began to understand that hard work and community involvement were key to building a legacy.
“My parents taught me that taking action, using your voice and being involved in your community is mandatory,” he explained in a recent South Florida Business Journal feature story. “Life is not a spectator sport.”
Arriola started this career by co-founding a call-center company called Inktel after graduating college. Soon after, he rose to the challenge of creating a community bank during a major recession and has since become one of the most influential figures in Miami.
As an engaged member of the community, Arriola’s civic involvements include bringing the national mentoring program City Year to Miami, acting as a board member for Kristi House, and serving as the National Co-Chair of the Democratic National Committee’s Hispanic Leadership Council.
According to Arriola, “Cuban’s are community focused. It’s not about what’s in it for me, but what’s in it for this community. What Cubans accomplished here by banding together and lifting each other up is amazing and you still see it today.”
Since its creation, Apollo bank has reached $500 million in total assets, made Florida Trend’s “Best Companies to Work for in Florida“ list, and became one of the state’s 25 largest financial institutions. The bank’s rapid growth and success are fueled not only by its expanding client base but also through Arriola’s commitment to providing quality products and services.
“My generation has a responsibility to continue to build upon and add to our culture’s impressive story. We need to further our parents’ and grandparents’ legacies by working hard, building successful businesses, leading by example, enhancing our communities and developing lasting relationships with each other, as well as other ethnic groups from all races and countries.”
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