Page 14 - BusinessWest May 27, 2024

Whether through physical branches or online platforms, Mary McGovern says it’s important to give customers the banking options they want.
a high value on local philanthropy.
“We’re different from
Country
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“We are thrilled to announce Mary’s appointment as the next president of Country Bank,” James Phaneuf, board chair, said when the selection was announced. “Mary’s proven track record, dedica- tion, and strategic vision make her the ideal candidate for this role.
“The board is confident that Mary’s leadership will drive the bank’s continued success and growth,” he added. “With her exten- sive experience, strategic mindset, and dedication to excellence, Mary is poised to lead the bank into a new era of innovation and customer satisfaction while maintaining its position as one of the most highly capitalized financial institutions in the region.”
Community Partner
Country is also well-known for its community involvement. Those efforts have focused in recent years on a number of priori- ties, including food insecurity, health, and education, as well as homeless shelters, senior-serving programs, youth organizations, and more.
To that end, Country reported more than $1.2 million in dona- tions in 2023, with 463 organizations receiving grants. In addition, the bank’s team members volunteered 1,255 hours of community service in 2023, while 37 employees served on a total of 65 non- profit boards and committees.
“We are a valued piece of the community. We try to give back to all the communities we serve,” McGovern said, adding that the bank’s financial-literacy programs continue to be a priority, as is a partnership with the WooSox — signified by a very prominent Country Bank sign in right field at Polar Park — and the team’s WooStars awards and its teacher-recognition program.
“We’re just continuing to build on a great foundation set by Paul in his 20 years here,” she added. “Being a community bank, we’re really invested in the health of our communities.”
McGovern speaks the language of community-bank presidents in Western Mass. that place
“We’ll continue
to do a hybrid approach. It seems to be working. The staff seems
to be happy. We don’t see that changing — in the foreseeable future, anyway.”
14 MAY 27, 2024 << BANKING & FINANCE >>
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