Headshot of Charlene Paling

Charlene Paling

Senior Vice President Entertainment & Media

Charlene Paling is Senior Vice President for Western Alliance Bank’s Entertainment Lending group.

With more than 20 years in entertainment finance, Ms. Paling meshes expertise in funding Film/TV projects with a strong legal background to facilitate financing for projects around the globe.

Prior to joining Western Alliance Bank, Ms. Paling was deputy team leader for the entertainment finance group at Bank Hapoalim in Los Angeles where she helped spearhead the bank’s production financings in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to a previous role with National Bank of Canada in Toronto, Ms. Paling also has held general counsel positions for Wishmaker Films and Blackwatch Communications, both in Montreal. She began her work in the industry overseeing tax credits for entertainment projects in the Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office.

Ms. Paling is a member of the Ontario Bar, holds a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and a bachelor’s degree from McGill University. She is a member of the Sheridan College (Ontario) Professional Advisory Council, FEME (Female Executives in Media and Entertainment) and the Law Society of Ontario.

A Proven Resource

Entertainment & Media Group

Western Alliance Entertainment & Media, a national banking group within Western Alliance Bank, Member FDIC, specializes in delivering tailored financing solutions for production, post-production and distribution teams across North America. The group’s proven track record and outstanding, responsive service help clients in the film and TV industry reach their goals. The Entertainment & Media Group is part of Western Alliance Bancorporation, which has more than $70 billion in assets. Major accolades include being ranked as a top U.S. bank in 2023 by American Banker and Bank Director. With significant national capabilities, the Entertainment & Media Group delivers the reach, resources and deep industry knowledge that make a difference for customers.