Country Bank Announces Leadership Promotions in Commercial Banking Division

WARE — Country Bank announced several strategic promotions within its Commercial Banking division, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to supporting business growth and expanding its commercial lending presence across Central and Western Mass.

The promoted individuals are Ben Leonard, Pat O’Hara, Ryan Nauman, and Sam Pursey. The announcement was made by Tom Wolcott, first senior vice president and chief lending officer, who oversees its Commercial Banking and Retail Lending divisions.

“At Country Bank, we are committed to recognizing and advancing leaders who demonstrate exceptional expertise, a relationship-focused approach, and a passion for helping businesses thrive,” Wolcott said. “Ben, Pat, Ryan, and Sam are proven professionals who continually deliver for our clients, our bank, and our communities. Their advancement reflects both their individual strengths and the continued momentum of our commercial banking division.”

Leonard was promoted to senior vice president, commercial banking executive. He will lead the Western and Eastern Commercial Banking teams, oversee targeted commercial growth strategies, and drive cross-functional sales alignment. With more than 24 years of experience, he previously served as team leader for the Western Region. He held senior leadership roles at Wells Fargo Bank. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Wells Fargo’s Credit Management Training Program, he also serves as vice chair on the board of Revitalize CDC.

O’Hara was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking team leader – East Region. He will lead the Worcester-based commercial team, manage a portfolio of business clients, and expand Country Bank’s commercial presence in key regional markets. With more than two decades of experience at Citizens Bank, Santander, and Bank of America, he brings deep market knowledge and strong local business relationships, supported by active involvement with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce.

Nauman was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking. He has been a key contributor to Country Bank for seven years, building strong relationships and supporting local businesses. With more than 27 years of experience, his deep ties to the Greater Springfield and Connecticut business communities will continue to drive growth and strengthen the bank’s regional presence.

Pursey was promoted to vice president, Commercial Banking. A nine-year member of the Country Bank team, he serves businesses in the Worcester market with a consultative, community-centered lending style. His volunteer work, including Be Like Brit in Haiti and numerous hours spent with nonprofit efforts throughout Massachusetts, exemplifies the mank’s mission to make a difference.

“As our team evolves and our markets continue to grow, these leaders will play a pivotal role in shaping our future,” Wolcott said. “Their collective expertise, integrity, and commitment to service advance both our mission and our momentum. I am incredibly proud to work alongside this talented group as we continue to deliver exceptional value to the businesses and communities we serve.”