Is There a Playbook for Romance Scams? Often YES.
By Stuart Best and Sara Costanzo An attractive stranger with a fake name and profile photo reaches out online and strikes up a connection. He/she sends messages daily. The stranger quickly profess his/her love for you. The stranger builds up a sense of trust. Then, the trap is set. The stranger start asking for money…
The M&A Landscape: Don’t Get Burned by Your Technology Contract
By Rich Carty Contracts and Bank Sales: Key Negotiation Insights for Executives What should boards of directors and executives consider when negotiating with their major technology vendors if they are considering an acquisition, or planning to sell their bank in the next several years? Recently, a CEO client approached us to manage her technology contract…
Portage Community Bank Names Hauch to Board
RAVENNA, Ohio,—Portage Community Bank, the wholly-owned bank subsidiary of Portage Bancshares, Inc., has named James V. Hauch to PCB’s board of directors. With an extensive background in law, accounting, and real estate, Hauch brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable to the organization. Hauch’s appointment took effect on January 1, 2025….
Thompson Phelan Strengthens Leadership
ANCHORVILLE, Mich., — Thompson Phelan Group, a design/build architectural firm, has made key changes to its ownership structure. This restructuring marks a significant milestone as the organization strengthens its leadership to build on its success and drive continued growth within the company. Kelly A. Watson, formerly Chief Architectural/Interior Designer, has accepted an ownership position within…
First National Announces Board Succession Plan
KALAMAZOO, Mich.,—The First National Bank of Michigan board of directors has executed a comprehensive succession plan designed to ensure a continued commitment of growth in Kalamazoo, Portage, Grand Rapids, Holland, Lansing, and Traverse City. Effective May 2025, Larry Lueth, Chairman, will retire after 19 years of leadership. Daniel Bitzer, President & CEO, will assume the…
Jim Nowak to Retire from UBB
BLOOMINGTON, Minn.,—Jim Nowak, Vice President and Director of ALM Strategy has announced his plan to retire from United Bankers’ Bank effective May 31, 2025. Nowak joined the UBB Securities team in 2002 with eight years’ prior experience in asset liability management. Throughout his tenure, Nowak strengthened the capabilities of UBB Securities through the development and…
Wintrust Names Amy Yuhn New Brand, Engagement, and Impact Leader
ROSEMONT, Ill.,—Wintrust Financial Corporation has named Amy Yuhn Executive Vice President for Brand, Engagement, and Impact, a new position that will oversee marketing, corporate communications, and community impact for the company. “We are pleased to welcome Amy to Wintrust,” said Tim Crane, President and Chief Executive Officer, Wintrust. “Under Amy’s leadership, we will continue to…
Orange Bank & Trust Promotes Two Officers
MIDDLETOWN, N.Y.,—Orange Bank & Trust Company, the banking subsidiary of Orange County Bancorp, Inc., has promoted two officers to support the ongoing expansion of Orange Wealth Management. Carla Alfieri has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Director of Private Banking and Jacqueline Weimmer will serve as Director of Trust Services. As Senior Private Banking Officer,…
Holly Heuer Named OCB Board Ambassador
OREGON, Wis.,—One Community Bank has named Holly Heuer, Chief Talent Officer, as Ambassador to the One Community Bank Advisory Board. Holly steps into this role bringing valuable insight to the board’s ongoing initiatives and strategic efforts. “We are thrilled to welcome Holly Heuer to the One Community Bank Advisory Board,” said Jim Walker, Independent Chair….
Farmers Names Dygert Columbus/Central Ohio Market President
CANFIELD, Ohio,—David D. Dygert, an accomplished financial executive with 26 years of leadership experience in the banking as well as commercial real estate industry has been named the Market President of the Columbus/Central Ohio Region for Farmers National Bank. Dygert is well-known in the Columbus business community, having served for 19 years as EVP and…