Fremont Bank in California, Star Bank in Minnesota, Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, FS Bancorp in Washington, Country Bank in Massachusetts and The Bank of North Dakota all announced key leadership hires in July. In
Fremont promotes a president from within
Fremont Bank has a new president.
The $5.9 billion-asset bank in Fremont, California, promoted Don Marek to the job. He succeeded Andy Mastorakis, who remains CEO.
Marek held several executive management roles during his 15 years at Fremont Bank, most recently leading the commercial lending group.
"Don is an exceptional leader who embodies our culture and is committed to being accessible and evolving our relationship-based banking model," Mastorakis said in a press release. "As Don assumes leadership of all client-facing businesses and operational functions, we will continue to collaborate on all matters relating to Fremont Bank."
Prior to joining Fremont Bank, Marek worked as a senior portfolio manager for MOHR Partners, a corporate real estate services firm headquartered in Walnut Creek, California. Marek also worked as a brand manager at The Clorox Company.
"I am thrilled for the opportunity to lead Fremont Bank as President," Marek said. "Bay Area business owners and local consumers alike deserve a bank that is committed to understanding and meeting their needs."
Additionally, the bank announced the promotions of Todd Dal Porto to chief lending officer; Mike Schlesinger to chief performance officer; and Devon Johnson to chief growth officer.
Star Bank in Minnesota names new CEO after founder dies
Star Bank in Maple Lake, Minnesota, said Katie Wahlquist became its president and CEO following the death of her father, Harry Wahlquist, on July 19. Harry Wahlquist founded and led the bank since 1990.
The $390.1 million-asset unit of MidWest Bancorp. said in a press release that Katie Wahlquist, who joined the bank in 2010 and was previously its chief strategy officer, serves on the bank and parent company's boards. She also is on the board of the Minnesota Bankers Association.
Star Bank also announced the promotions of Matt Geist to chief financial officer; Andy Guse to chief credit officer; and Andy Wahlquist to chief operations officer.
Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina lines up next president and CEO
Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina in Newton said that Bill Cable will become president and CEO on Sept. 19. He will succeed Lance Sellers, who plans to retire in early 2025.
Cable joined the $1.6 billion-asset Peoples in 1995 and has served in several executive positions, including most recently as chief operating officer. He began his banking career in 1991 with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
"I am delighted with the Board's choice of Bill," Sellers said in a release. "I've worked side-by-side with him for many years and his extensive knowledge of banking and the industry will benefit the bank for years to come."
Sellers worked at Peoples for 26 years, including 12 as CEO.
FS Bancorp in Washington announced new president
FS Bancorp in Mountlake Terrace, Washington, said Chief Financial Officer Matthew Mullet has taken on the dual role of president.
The $3 billion-asset parent of 1st Security Bank of Washington said in a press release that Mullet succeeded Joseph Adams, who remains CEO.
Mullet "has been an integral part of our team and has a proven track record of leadership and a deep understanding of the banking landscape and all of the bank's operations," Adams said in the release.
Country Bank in Massachusetts names new leader
Country Bank in Ware, Massachusetts, said President Mary McGovern is also now CEO of the company.
McGovern, who was named president of the $1.9 billion-asset bank earlier this year, succeeded Paul Scully, who retired. McGovern joined the bank in 2011 and previously served as chief financial officer before assuming the role of chief operating officer in 2023.
Scully had been CEO for 20 years.
"I am honored to have worked alongside Paul for the past 13 years," McGovern said. "As I assume the organization's leadership, I am dedicated to the Bank's continued growth and supporting our customers, community, and team members."
The Bank of North Dakota recruits next CEO
The Bank of North Dakota in Bismarck landed a new top executive.
The North Dakota Industrial Commission, which oversees the
Morgan, a certified public accountant, has worked in banking for 23 years and most recently served as CEO of the $1.9 billion-asset Starion Bank, which operates in North Dakota and Wisconsin.
"Don's impressive experience over his decades-long career in the banking industry and his deep understanding of the critical role BND's community bank partners play in supporting farmers, ranchers and businesses in the state make him exceptionally well-positioned to lead this unique institution," the commission said in a release.
