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10 Worcester Business Journal | Book of Lists 2018 | wbjournal.com S ince its inception in 1850, Country Bank has evolved into a major player in the financial sector within Central Massachusetts. Originally established as Ware Savings Bank, the institution merged with Palmer Bank in 1981 to become Country Bank; in 1998, Leicester Savings Bank became part of the financial family. Country Bank offers many of the same products as the larg- er area banks. From mortgages, commercial loans, rewards checking and savings accounts to money market, CDs, mobile and online banking, cash management services and debit cards, Country Bank provides an array of products and ser- vices for consumer and business banking. Additionally, the Bank is focused on reaching a generation that prefers the convenience of banking on their mobile devices through its eBanking platforms. A strong belief that relationships are the most valuable investments in life drives Country Bank and sets it apart from competitors. "Whether that is with our staff, our customers or our communities, we strive to deliver a memorable experience. We also understand that our commitment to providing quality service to our customers depends on the dedication of our remarkable staff," said Paul F. Scully, president and CEO. "Our culture is to develop trusting relationships with our customers and treat them like our neighbors. We also understand that banking products and services need to add value to their everyday lives, making it easier to do their banking." Furthermore, Country Bank's commitment to service and building relationships is embedded in its culture. "We know that our customers are our biggest advocates, which is what every business strives to achieve. We also understand the importance of our branch network and that many of our cus- tomers enjoy the service and relationships they have built with our staff," Scully asserted. This past fall Country Bank expanded its geographic foot- print when it opened a business center at 315 Main Street in Worcester. "We have seen great results in working with the local businesses in this area. Everyone has been extremely receptive to our team - Bryan Moore and Jessica McGarry, both Vice Presidents of Commercial Lending," said Scully. "They are ingrained in the community and enjoy working in this new location. The Bank's 278 Park Ave. branch continues to grow and we look forward to continuing to expand on our relationships in the Worcester market in 2018." Country Bank also places a strong emphasis on giving and community involvement. "We believe that's the role of a com- munity bank, and most community banks feel similarly," Scully pointed out. The Bank's support of area food pantries, senior centers, local schools and other organizations totals more than $650,000 annually. He added, "Donations are geared towards all aspects of the community to improve the quality of life for its residents. We are a supporter of our local hospitals because we believe healthy communities must have access to good healthcare." Country Bank's philanthropic and business achievements have garnered kudos from noted industry publications and organizations. The Boston Business Journal recognized Country Bank as one of the top 100 charitable contributors in the area and received the Corporate Citizenship Award in 2017. In 2017, the Commercial Record from the Warren Group cited Country Bank as #16 of the fastest growing commercial lenders. For the last 168 years, Country Bank has been an integral part of the community, providing an ever-evolving portfolio of banking products and services, while offering financial sup- port to local agencies and non-profit organizations. One of the most highly capitalized financial institutions in the Commonwealth with $1.5 billion in assets, Country Bank has the ability to meet the needs of its business banking and con- sumer banking customers. Going forward, the Bank's mission is to continue growing mutually beneficial relationships with its customers, community and staff, according to Scully. n Focused on Relationship-Building with Customers, Community and Staff Street Address: 315 Main Street, Worcester Phone Number: 508-753-7486 Website: countrybank.com Product or Service Description: Financial Services Number of Employees: 230 Head of Company and Title: Paul F. Scully, President and CEO Year Founded: 1850 COUNTRY BANK P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y A D V E R T I S E M E N T