Executive Vice President, COO

Welcome to PeoplesBank! We are the largest mutually chartered bank in Western Mass and Northern Connecticut, we are proud to lead the way in green values, sustainable energy financing, and charitable giving. Our commitment to operating in the best interest of our customers is matched by our dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging work environment. We offer excellent compensation, workplace flexibility, and a competitive benefits package to our associates. Our award-winning culture has earned us recognition as the Best Place to Work and Best Local Bank. Join our team of dedicated and innovative individuals and be a part of our dynamic, successful organization. Let's make a difference together!

Summary:

PeoplesBank is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to serve as Executive Vice President - Chief Operations Officer. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, this role is responsible for the overall direction and management of critical operational divisions-including Business Solutions, Banking Operations, IT/Data Management, and Risk Oversight. The EVP-COO will drive enterprise-wide initiatives, support strategic planning and execution across multiple banks, and serve as a trusted advisor to the President & CEO and Board of Directors. This is a high-impact role for a dynamic leader who excels in aligning operational excellence with long-term organizational growth, innovation, and community-focused values.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee Enterprise Operations divisions, including Business Solutions, Banking Operations, IT/Data Management, and Risk Oversight.
• Align resources and guide teams to successfully execute strategic initiatives, critical projects, and daily operations.
• Drive the execution and performance reporting of strategic plans across affiliated banks, in partnership with the MHC President & CEO.
• Provide strategic recommendations to support growth, profitability, and long-term sustainability.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and department leaders to ensure alignment with operational goals and strategic priorities.
• Recommend and implement policy and program enhancements to improve organizational efficiency and impact.
• Manage budgets and resource allocation to support business needs while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to business leaders, promoting operational excellence and cross-functional collaboration.
• Monitor and evaluate organizational performance using KPIs and scorecards to inform decision-making.
• Champion talent acquisition and retention strategies to attract top-tier professionals.
• Develop and maintain succession plans for critical roles, reporting progress to executive leadership.
• Complete yearly compliance training and adhere to bank policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in finance or accounting OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10-15+ years of experience in banking or financial services
• 8-10 years in senior leadership roles, particularly in operations, strategy, or enterprise-level management.
• Proven success in leading cross-functional teams and executing strategic initiatives.
• Experience managing complex operational divisions such as IT, risk, banking operations, and business solutions.

Skills Required:

• Strategic leadership with the ability to shape and align organizational direction.
• Innovative mindset to drive continuous improvement in operations, technology, and service.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and performance metrics.
• Proven ability to execute complex initiatives and lead change across functions.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage stakeholders and inspire teams.
• Inclusive relationship-building and talent development capabilities.
• High ethical standards, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to professional growth.

Computer/Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with enterprise systems such as core banking platforms, CRM tools, and financial reporting software.
• Experience with data management tools and business intelligence platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) to support strategic decision-making.
• Understanding of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity principles, and digital transformation strategies.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to sit, use hands to sort, write and keyboard, and to listen and speak. The associate is frequently required to reach, walk, stoop, crouch. The associate is occasionally required to stand, lift, bend, drive and travel.