Ohio Record Magazine - Winter 2023 - Official Magazine of Ohio Bankers League

The Official Magazine of the Ohio Bankers League

OHIO RECORD WINTER 2023 ISSUE

Leadership & Strategy Edition

MASTERING LEADERSHIP MOVES: YOUR STRATEGIC CHECKMATE IN THE GAME OF SUCCESS WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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Catherine Cawthon, CEO & President 88 East Broad Street, Suite 1800 Columbus, Ohio 43215 614.591.9356 | www.occh.org

The Official Magazine of the Ohio Bankers League

OHIO RECORD Leadership & Strategy Edition IN THIS ISSUE | WINTER 2023

FEATURED ARTICLES

27 THE CHANGING FACE OF LEADERSHIP

37 SUCCESSION AT THE TOP: LESSONS LEARNED FROM CEO TRANSITIONS

ARTICLES

4 Over the Horizon 8 Inaugural OBL Main Event a Smashing Success!

10 200+ Attendees “Get It!” at 2023 OBL Women in Banking Conference

12 The Game We Play in Government Relations 14 A Year in Review From the OBL Chair 16 Ohio BankPac - Making a Difference 23 What Bankers Need to Know About Adult Cannabis Use in Ohio

28 Leadership & Management Programs Prevail 30 Bringing Bankers Together Through OBL Forums

33 Change Management in Banks: A Key to Success

42 STRATEGIC MARKETING PLANNING

40 When Crisis Hits: True Leadership Emerges 46 Banking Calendar 49 Around the Industry 50 The Top Ten

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OVER THE HORIZON Banks currently have no shortage of issues to navigate.

Sound, visionary leadership and the ability to execute on strategy differentiate those who see opportunities and thrive from those who merely survive or toss in the towel.

OBL is hyper-focused on carrying out our mission to help top-level bankers make informed decisions and lead their institutions effectively in today's dynamic financial environment. I am humbled by the number of Ohio banks that look to OBL as their trusted partner to stay ahead of the game.

As covered in this edition, there was plenty of meaty content at the inaugural OBL Main Event that touched on, if not fully immersed in, the importance of good leadership and an effective strategy. The opening keynote by Jim Marous emphasized the importance of people over technology and other factors. The closing speaker Logan Mallory drove home the criticality of the leader’s own thoughtful intentionality (ala Ted Lasso) in setting the right tone. Then there were learning tracks, such as those by Joe Micallef and Joe Sullivan, offering deeper dives and tools that could be taken back to the bank and executed on.

Applying sound, visionary leadership to the OBL, we are finalizing our first “soup-to-nuts” strategic plan in my decade of leading the Association. It’s not that we did nothing along these lines over the past ten years. In fact, I’d argue far from that; we focused the first half dozen years on tearing into specific aspects of the OBL on a

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quarterly basis with the Board of Directors to validate what we were doing with an eye on improvement. Then during the pandemic, everything we did was put under a microscope…or a shredder. We were prohibited from operating “business as usual” just like every other entity and had to adapt quickly to a hybrid world, so we carefully studied the efficacy of everything that we did.

In the summer of 2022, the OBL management team inventoried everything that we do. We sent short surveys to the OBL Board of Directors, OBL BankServices Board and the Ohio Bankers Benefits Trust Board for input on every aspect of the Association: communications preferences, membership experience, banker professional development programming, other associations, bank products/services needs and industry trends. Responses received were tremendously insightful and flatteringly supportive of all we do so well. Plus, we received some critical feedback on where we could make an even greater impact.

Armed with that input we met with the OBL Boards in the fall of 2022, and the management team made presentations on the components of our mission and then led smallgroup discussions to seek input on new opportunities.

After distilling all of that feedback, I spent the next several months conducting one-on-one conversations with each Director to gain added insights. As a final step, we reconvened the Boards in the fall of this year to present our findings and hone in on four strategic objectives:

1. Ensure Sustainable Operational Excellence 2. Increase Collaborative Partnerships 3. Expand Depth and Breadth of Engagement 4. Evolve New Sources of Non-dues Revenue – Shared Services & Joint Ventures That discussion with the OBL Boards teased out numerous actionable objectives as we focused mostly on engagement as well as shared services and joint ventures.

It was humbling to hear Directors’ willingness to step up where needed. Despite operating in a consolidating industry where the impact of mergers and acquisitions is material and compounding, OBL is in a position of strength in every measurable way. In the end, our Directors cast a vision for maximizing our long-term relevance and sustainability. There continue to be great opportunities to serve the industry. There is no question OBL can control its own destiny as the go-to bankers association in Ohio for at least another 132 years. The credit goes to great leadership and a committed team that I am blessed to work with each day serving awesome bankers across Ohio. I look forward to sharing the full details of OBL’s strategic plan in a future edition of Ohio Record.

Society of Bank Execs An impactful leadership program for c-suite bankers is the Society of Bank Executives. Designed by the Utah Bankers Association with the BYU Marriott School of Business, OBL and a dozen other bankers associations across the country are making this program available to their members. For much longer than my 20 years with OBL, we have done an impressive job offering intensive leadership development for our members. Two highlyregarded OBL leadership development programs are the Bank Leadership Institute and Bank Management School. Yet, they are not geared towards CEOs. I have long felt we had a gap in offering an “iron-sharpeningiron” program for a bank’s top leadership. Don’t get me wrong, the CEO Symposium and our convention are great events. Yet, these cover hot industry issues and one speaker focused on leadership development. What I have wanted was something focused on leadership. Plus, with the Society operating on a national scope, bankers can confidentially open up to peers in a way they won’t with a competitor. Out of that need, the Society of Bank Execs was born.

The Society had a soft rollout in the latter half of 2022, and it is wrapping up its first complete year. Combining self-paced virtual learning with in-person strategy sessions, I have joined a dozen Ohio bankers and more

than 100 nationally in upping our game as leaders. I give a special shoutout to Lindsey Cloud from Southern Hills Community Bank and Larry Miller from Ohio Valley Bank for participating in every aspect of the Society and for being named to its advisory board.

GSB Don’t forget about the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin. As a graduate and its current treasurer, this program has never been stronger. We continue to insist on the rigors of a two-week program spread across three years. I applaud the dozen Ohioans who graduated this year and the others who are choosing this top-shelf program to invest in their professional development. The bankers on GSB’s Banker Advisory Board along, with the faculty who work for banks in consulting capacities, help keep the curriculum and overall experience cutting edge. Talk about a powerful peer network; I graduated 15 years ago and am a part of text strings with my crew from GSB that includes bankers from Ohio, South Dakota, West Virginia and Wisconsin. In another example two OBL Directors, Bill Daily from Riverside Bank of Dublin and Kendall Rieman from Croghan Colonial Bank, reconnected with a close classmate who is a banker in Illinois during our convention in Chicago this past summer.

Innovation OBL has a proven history of innovation and resilience.

This is the result of the Ohio banking industry’s commitment to move forward pursuing a unified vision.

I continue to be humbled as we attracted four new member banks this year. Those relationships are long in the making, and we count 91 percent of the banks chartered or having a deposit-taking presence in Ohio as dues-paying members. That is a high-water mark in my two decades with OBL. It is further evidence that we speak on behalf of Ohio’s banking industry. On my WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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at the big banks post Dodd-Frank. Those chickens have and continue to come to roost. Section 1071 has been slowed down, but something will be put in place. That’s a fact. My money is on Director Chopra simply refiling what we’ve already seen. It will apply to community banks too.

travels, banks have made it clear there is more demand than ever for OBL to deliver on that mission. Thank you for this continued vote of confidence. That is why we beefed up to 21 employees now on the OBL team.

Activist Federal Regulators The OBL’s new strategic plan upholds the long-standing priority of having registered lobbyists on staff. I’ve said it in my column before that Bill Morgan told me the day I was hired at the OBL that the last thing a trade association does before it turns out the lights is fight for its members in the governmental arena. This is a known fact regardless of industry. Banker professional development and collaboration on products and services are the other two crucial legs of OBL’s mission. Yet, government relations is where the buck stops. That is especially the case for banking, which is among the most highly regulated industries.

It was a big deal when we received confirmation that Federal Reserve Governor Miki Bowman would speak at the OBL Main Event. I first met Miki when she was a community bank compliance officer, then she became the state banking commissioner in Kansas. Miki places high value on being out amongst bankers getting the industry’s pulse. At the Main Event, she needed to go on the record for all of the official monetary policy remarks, then she got real candid on everything else coming out of the Fed. It is a lot! The Fed has issued 5,000 pages of new regulations over the past six months.

What we are seeing now is among the most antagonistic regulatory seasons I’ve experienced during my time in the industry. Mind you, lending portfolios are really good, and banks have never been so well capitalized. Thus, the fire raining down on the community banks is nothing short of politically motivated hostility and has many of you asking if the current leadership is driving for a banking landscape like Canada’s. Don’t get me started on how often I’ve heard community banks would never deal with the CFPB and the other onerous regulations being hurled

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Increased capital standards aren’t just for the biggest forty banks. Mark my word that Vice Chair Barr will bully his peers to push them down to Main Street as quickly as possible. Do you remember the Dubin Amendment that capped interchange on debit cards? The Federal Reserve in secret under the cover of a blackout period issued a rule calling for limits on interchange. This action by the Fed is well beyond their scope. They have no right to shift income from the financial services industry that they regulate to the merchants. The Federal Reserve should at least be agnostic, but it would be great if they could be supportive of banks just like NCUA supports the credit unions they oversee. Additionally, by acquiescing to calls from the merchants (whom they don’t regulate), they are imposing new limits on credit card interchange that will have a negative financial impact on the entities that they do regulate.

How about CRA? Do you like what was recently released? So much for the bright line of a community bank being defined at $10 billion in assets. The final rule applies the same regulatory expectations for small banks as it does for the largest banks. OBL has a CRA working group that covets your input to shape our further comments. Please let us know if you have a banker to lend to this important effort. We also have other issues for you to weigh in on with your first-hand stories regarding how regulatory activism will harm small businesses and individual consumers.

Thank you for looking to OBL this past year as your trusted partner in defending the Ohio banking industry in the governmental arena and developing your team with robust educational content, as well as peer networks and sourcing critical product and service solutions. We are grateful for all you do to add value to the communities you serve across the Buckeye State. Safe travels throughout the holiday season and in the New Year! You have our continued commitment to effectively navigate the dynamic financial environment as we look out further over the horizon.

Michael J. Adelman President & CEO, Ohio Bankers League

Visit www.ohiobankersleague.com for more information.

ASSOCIATION STAFF Michael Adelman President & CEO madelman@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7616

4215 Worth Avenue, Suite 300 Columbus, OH 43219 Fax (614) 340-7596

Gauri Airi Executive Director, Ohio Bankers Benefits Trust gairi@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7598 Brenda Arnold Products & Services Manager, OBL BankServices barnold@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7620

The Ohio Record is published quarterly by OBL BankServices.

Steve Bare Database Manager sbare@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7607

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Ohio Record at the address listed above.

Don Boyd Vice President of State Government Relations and General Counsel dboyd@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7608

Statements and opinions expressed in Ohio Record are not necessarily those of the OBL.

Michelle Crume Senior Vice President, OBL Executive Director, OBL BankServices mcrume@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7622 Taylor Daniel Executive Assistant tdaniel@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7602

Stephanie Elam Plan Coordinator & Customer Service Specialist selam@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7591 Rita Hinkle Administrator, OBBT rhinkle@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7609 Daniel Holstein, CPA Senior Accountant dholstein@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7604 Paige Houlihan Products and Services Coordinator, OBLBankServices phoulihan@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7613

Julie Kiplinger Education Manager jkiplinger@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7612 Evan Kleymeyer Senior Vice President of Government and External Relations ekleymeyer@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7605 Kimberley Mason Higher Education Partnership Manager kmason@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7601 Jennifer Osburn, CPA CFO, Chief Administrative Officer josburn@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7606

Sarah Husk Education Manager shusk@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7610

Megan Peiffer Education Specialist mpeiffer@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7618

Audra Johnson Director of Communications ajohnson@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7621

Shannon Strow Government Relations Coordinator sstrow@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7614

Susan Poling Jones Professional Development Director spoling@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7611

Christine Zeek Employee Benefits Manager, OBBT czeek@ohiobankersleague.com (614) 340-7617

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Emcee for the event, Mikelle Brady of Profit Resources, Inc., energizes the crowd for the Main Event.

INAUGURAL OBL MAIN EVENT A SMASHING SUCCESS! After more than two years in the making – the 2023 OBL Main Event was deemed a great success for the industry!

Held Nov. 6 – 8 at the Hyatt Regency Columbus, the program attracted more than 425 attendees – a recordbreaking crowd for what was formerly known as the OBL Annual Meeting.

“The beauty of the event was the fact that you had CEOs, CFOs, marketers, lenders, retail officers and risk managers all in the same room, collaborating and networking with one another and with service providers in both formal and relaxed settings throughout the event,” said Audra Johnson, OBL director of communications.

The event opened with Jim Marous, co-publisher of The Financial Brand, while the program also featured comments from Gov. Michelle “Miki” Bowman, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and a closing keynote session with Logan Mallory, vice present of marketing with Motivosity.

A highlight of the program included the OBL Annual Business Meeting. During the meeting the OBL elected 2024 OBL Board Chair Ron Zimmerly, President & CEO, of The Middlefield Banking Company. Additional officers include: First Vice Chair Jenny Saunders, Division President FCBank, a Division of CNB; Second Vice Chair Tony Davis, President & CEO, Peoples State Bank; and Treasurer Todd Mason, President & CEO, First National Bank of Pandora

The Main Event expanded to provide learning tracks that spanned across eight different disciplines, with five rounds of educational opportunities; and was designed for bankers with varying levels of experience and job function. The program also featured CEO Roundtable Discussions, a sold-out OBL BankServices Expo and a special Lessons in Leadership kick-off, which allowed for attendees to find Clarity, Confidence, Consistency & Culture at their organizations.

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Bick Weissenrieder, board chair of Hocking Valley Bank, was recognized for his 50-plus year career in banking, and was presented with the prestigious Pioneer in Banking Award. The OhioBank Pac Shining Star Award was presented to Civista Bank. Attendees also heard from Levi Kabango, an OBL Summer Banking Institute intern who shared his experience as an intern turned employee of Union Savings Bank.

Mike Adelman sat down with Fed Governor Miki Bowman for a fireside Q&A session.

The OBL presented the Pioneer in Banking Award to Bick Weissenrieder of The Hocking Valley Bank. Pictured here are his close friends, colleagues and previous Pioneer Award winners.

Joe Micallef facilitated two break out sessions at the Main Event in addition to the opening Lessons in Leadership session.

SAVE THE DATES! Wednesday – Friday, November 13 – 15

Emcee Mikelle Brady gets ready to knock out the Main Event!

2024 OBL Main Event Hyatt Regency Columbus & Greater Columbus Convention Center

Levi Kabango, a Summer Banking Institute intern, addresses the crowd about why SBI is important to our industry.

WATCH FOR DETAILS!

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The team from LCNB National Bank pose for a photo.

200+ ATTENDEES “GET IT!” AT 2023 OBL WOMEN IN BANKING CONFERENCE For the 9th time in as many years, the OBL held the annual OBL Women in Banking Conference: She Gets It!, a program designed especially for and devoted to developing female bankers into bankers who hold leadership positions. This year, like all others, featured general and power sessions to advance attendees in their quest for professional and personal success and achievement.

AmyK Hutchens provided an opening keynote address on The Power of Profitable Conversations. More than 200 attendees gave profound thought to her key points, including answering questions such as “How might we …” “Would you be willing …” and “What do you need most from me right now” to better and more clearly communicate with employees, colleagues and leadership.

She also provided direction to aid women in having those “tough conversations” with others both inside and outside of work.

The event also featured an Executive Panel with Michelle Crume, OBL SVP/Professional Development and executive director, OBL BankServices; Elizabeth Woodruff, vice president of correspondent banking for United Bankers’ Bank; and Ilaria Rawlins, CEO, Fortuna Bank, a denovo women’s bank – only one of four in the country started for the purpose of being a women owned bank to service women. The panelists shared many experiences and advice to those in the audience. When asked for parting thoughts, they shared:

Karen Better from Performance Trust Capital Partners enlightened the audience on Unconscious Bias.

“Advocate for yourself – and others like you.”

- Michelle Crume

“Take the hard job!”

- Elizabeth Woodruff

“Have no regrets!”

- Illaria Rawlins

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As for having no regrets – attendees have no regrets in spending the day with the OBL as indicated from the event surveys.

This was my first OBL Woman in Banking Conference. I really enjoyed meeting all the uplifting woman in banking and hearing their stories. It was a day well spent!

A highlight of the event was the economic forecast given by Chief Economist for Stifel Financial Lindsay Piegza.

- Tangi Savage, Operations Specialist, Hometown Bank The program was excellent! It was informative, the presenters wellprepared and the content delivered.

I admire those who can make their expertise accessible and understandable to non-experts, especially Dr. Lindsey Peigza, who provided an Economic Outlook.

- Susan Hunt, Learning Manager, Park National Bank This event always delivers! I appreciate having a day of positivity, uplifting messages and motivational content.

This is one of the best events for networking I attend, making true connections with other women in banking.

- Elizabeth Woodruff, Vice President of Correspondent Banking, United Bankers’ Bank

Women in Banking panelists, Illaria Rawlins (Fortuna Bank), Elizabeth Woodruff (United Bankers’ Bank), AmyK Hutchens (AmyK International) and Michelle Crume (Ohio Bankers League) pose for a photo after their Q&A session.

Emcee for the day, Marcie Bomberg Montoya (Wipfli), kept the audience engaged for the day.

Attendees enjoy the presentation given by LeeAnn Marie Webster about living your life without regrets.

SAVE THE DATE! Friday, October 18

2024 OBL Women in Banking Conference Hilton Columbus at Easton 10TH ANNIVERSARY!

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THE GAME WE PLAY IN GOVERNMENT RELATIONS A couple of quotes exemplify the government relations realm. The first is, “Democracy is a contact sport” and the second is that “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” No matter how much planning goes into General Assembly policy priorities and advocacy efforts, the fundamentals remain the same. Try to proactively pass things that would be beneficial to the industry and stop the bad things that come up. So far, this General Assembly, OBL has been able to do both on behalf of the membership, but it has not always happened as planned and a lot of factors have impacted the cadence of legislative session from special elections, to ballot initiatives, to political jockeying.

Despite some of those challenges, OBL has successfully advocated for key housing initiatives outlined in the priorities set by the OBL Government Relations Council and been able to protect against proposed government interference in bank decision making as well as power grabs by credit unions. Though we are just about halfway through this General Assembly, there has been significant progress on other industry priorities as well. As you will see below, many of the priorities will be ongoing efforts to protect the industry from certain bad ideas or to continually engage positively on certain issues that, though a bill may pass, will continue to require constant vigilance.

Key to achieving these priorities is advocacy directly from bankers with legislators so continue to engage with your local elected officials, be sure to attend OBL’s Day at the Capitol next year, and contact OBL staff if you have an interest in hosting a legislator or want help building a relationship. As we close the books on 2023 and look to 2024, we can almost guarantee that there will be twists and turns along the road but rest assured, the OBL Government Relations Team is actively engaged on your behalf at the Statehouse and with elected officials to make sure the industry is well represented.

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OBL State Priorities 135th General Assembly (2023-2024) Advocate for increased use of technology by local governments and to allow for electronic recording title searches.

Ongoing - HB 237 Introduced to allow for electronic recording.

Clarify Ohio’s lien release statute, ORC 5301.36, to ensure banks are not unnecessarily targets of litigation.

Target - 2024 Enhance Ohio’s elder exploitation laws to increase communication to banks following reporting and to establish the ability for banks to put a hold on a transaction where elder exploitation is suspected and provide immunity for or for not doing so.

Target - 2024 Establish the ability for banks to put a hold on a transaction where elder abuse or exploitation is suspected and provide immunity for or for not doing so.

Target - 2024 Explore opportunities to reestablish a credit for subchapter S corporation banks to prevent potential double taxation issues.

Ongoing Protect against government intrusion into bank decision making including against forced access and responsible banking legislation.

Ongoing - Successfully pushed back on negative legislation.

Advocate against any expansions of credit union powers or authority.

Ongoing - Successfully advocated for removal of credit union power expansion from state budget.

Oppose the expansion of the harmful Durbin Amendment to Credit Cards.

Pending - Oppose the Credit Card Competition Act, S. 1838/H.R. 3881

Support efforts to improve Ohio’s legal climate for businesses.

Ongoing - SB 19 Introduced to reign in third-party litigation funding.

Protect the payment system by continuing to allow access only to insured depositories and other entities currently authorized by law.

Ongoing

Assist efforts to increase access to housing and to increase development of new housing supply Passed - State Budget Bill (HB 33) included creation of a state-level low-income housing tax credit and other pro-housing measures.

Support Congressional action to roll back Dodd Frank Section 1071 Pending - HJR5/SJR32

Ensure any data privacy legislation brings other data holders up to the level of banks rather than layering on additional requirements for the industry.

Ongoing - No data privacy bills introduced this GA so far.

Safeguard against efforts to reallocate bank assessment dollars for non-banking purposes.

Ongoing - No reallocations or raids of the fund included in the state budget.

Defend against efforts to create new bank-like charters without subjecting businesses to the same requirements as banks or that would create consumer confusion.

Ongoing - No legislation to create crypto or other digital asset specific banks this GA. Guard against unnecessary increases in banks’ tax burden.

Ongoing - No bank tax increases included in the budget.

OBL Federal Priorities 118th Congress (2023-2024) Establish the ability for banks to provide financial services for the cannabis and ancillary industry.

Pending - SB. 2860, SAFER Banking Act Ensure that any legislation dealing with data security or privacy includes a GLBA exemption, establishes a national data security and notification standard, with clear state preemption Ongoing Remove taxation on income from farm real estate loans made by FDIC insured banks, to level the playing field between banks and Farm Credit Pending - H.R. 3139/S. 2371, ACRE Act Protect against any efforts to create a national interest rate cap, which would reduce access to credit for millions of consumers.

Ongoing

Encourage reasonable and voluntary Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) disclosures Ongoing Ensure any legislation dealing with stablecoin issuers, establishes a strong regulatory oversight needed to ensure effective consumer protection, financial stability, and a level regulatory playing field.

Pending - Amend H.R. 4766 to ensure level playing field Advocate to allow financial institutions to deploy innovative solutions for customers with non-traditional needs, such as those without frequent access to mail service, a computer, or a fixed location Pending - Reintroduction of the ESIGN Modernization Act Push for legislation to require any credit union that buys a bank or offers subordinated debt be required to change to a bank charter.

Target 2024 Close the ILC/ Fintech Bank Charter loophole.

Target 2024 Protect against any expansions of credit union powers or authority.

Ongoing

Don Boyd VP, State Government Relations & General Counsel, Ohio Bankers League dboyd@ohiobankersleague.com

Evan Kleymeyer Senior Vice President of Government and External Relations, Ohio Bankers League ekleymeyer@ohiobankersleague.com

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A YEAR IN REVIEW FROM THE OBL CHAIR The year has been marked by numerous challenges and triumphs, reflecting the dynamic nature of the financial landscape. From the outset, my primary focus was on enhancing member engagement and fostering a collaborative environment that promotes the growth and sustainability of our industry through the Association and its individual members.

numbers to offer better benefits with lower costs and superior service through the Ohio Bankers Benefits Trust. Our progress toward striving forward together was evident as we had enthusiastic participation of banking professionals across Ohio in the first ever Main Event, drawing over 450 attendees and signaling a collective commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends.

In navigating the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, we were able to advocate the concerns of Ohio's banking community and work to ensure they were effectively communicated to elected officials, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders. Throughout the year, we organized town hall meetings and roundtable discussions to address pressing issues. This initiative-taking approach not only strengthened the Association's influence but also contributed to positive changes in regulatory frameworks, fostering an environment conducive to responsible banking practices and innovation.

It cannot be understated that we will only continue to effectively serve our communities IF we have a unified, resilient voice in Columbus and Washington DC, develop the next diverse generation of bankers, collaborate on new initiatives, and boldly serve each other. While these challenges are significant, I am more optimistic than ever that we will reach new heights at the OBL because of the best association team in the country, the leadership of our 2024 Chair, Ron Zimmerly, and you, my fellow Ohio bankers.

To recognize the importance of continuous learning and professional development, we enhanced the Association's program offerings. We aimed to equip our members with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly changing financial landscape by tailoring workshops and seminars to address emerging technologies, cybersecurity challenges, and customer-centric strategies. We have also continued to invest in our future with another successful year at the Summer Banking Institute. This program opened more opportunities for banks to invest in the principal element of the industry’s future success: developing young future bankers. And we continued to come together in greater

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Thank you again for the honor to serve as your 2023 Chair of the Ohio Bankers League Board of Directors. It was humbling to serve and represent such compassionate, smart, and innovative individuals as the bankers across the great State of Ohio. I am truly blessed to call so many of you friends. God Bless you and your families as you continue to faithfully serve others.

Brian Young, Chairman, Ohio Bankers League Chairman, President & CEO, The Union Bank Company

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OHIO BANKPAC MAKING A DIFFERENCE In 2023, the Ohio BankPac had another great year raising nearly $200,000. The continued success of the Political Action Committee has allowed OBL to build up an already strong government relations program. OBL is able to use these funds to better promote a thriving and competitive banking system for Ohio.

those bankers that have contributed more than $100. For more information about the Ohio BankPac, please contact Shannon Strow at sstrow@ohiobankersleague.com. OBL looks look forward to another great year in 2024.

OBL would like to thank our PAC board of directors, for the time and effort they committed during 2023 to increasing the size and influence of our PAC. The primary reason for our continued success, however goes to each of our contributors. OBL would like to recognize below

$2500 or more Michael Adelman Ohio Bankers League

$1000-$2499 Paul Reed The Farmers Bank and Savings Company Trent Troyer First Federal Community Bank N.A. Lars Eller The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Eddie Steiner The Commercial Savings Bank Jeffrey Wilson The Park National Bank B. Robert Harlow 1st National Bank Dennis Shaffer Civista Bank Shawn Keller Buckeye State Bank Chris Zeek Ohio Bankers League Todd Mason The First National Bank of Pandora Matthew Miller The Park National Bank

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Mary Snider Fairfield Federal Savings & Loan Association of Lancaster Michael Pell First State Bank

Benedict Weissenrieder The Hocking Valley Bank Thomas Wiseman The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Mark Masters Mechanics Bank

Bryan Stepp The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Larry Miller The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Laura Tussing The Park National Bank

David Trautman The Park National Bank

Patrick Nash The Park National Bank

Brian Young The Union Bank Company

Charles Crowley Boenning & Scattergood

$500-$999 Tammy Bobo The Hocking Valley Bank Paulette Sumney The Hocking Valley Bank Howard Boyle Hometown Bank Eric Holsky The Community Bank

Tony Davis Peoples State Bank Michael Lewis Hometown Bank Susan Poling Ohio Bankers League Brady Burt The Park National Bank Louis Moore Banc Consulting Partners

Kimberley Mason Ohio Bankers League

Trevor Black The Farmers & Merchants Bank

Russell Edwards Civista Bank

Gauri Airi Ohio Bankers League

Brendon Matthews The First National Bank of Pandora

Paul Heldman CenterBank

Shannon Strow Government Relations Coordinator, Ohio Bankers League sstrow@ohiobankersleague.com

Daniel Rolfes CenterBank Paul Stark Civista Bank Julie Mattlin Civista Bank Jason Painley Mechanics Bank James Nicholson North Valley Bank Andrea Morris The Andover Bank Michael St. John The Cincinnatus Savings & Loan Company Kevin Sauder The Farmers & Merchants State Bank David Vernon The Farmers National Bank of Canfield Blair Hillyer The First National Bank of Dennison Jeffrey Swaim The Hocking Valley Bank Anna Barnitz The Ohio Valley Bank Company Tom Shepherd The Ohio Valley Bank Company Dale Luebke Misnter Bank Nicholas Gesouras Mechanics Bank

James Park Buckeye Community Bank Allen Nickles Civista Bank Shawn Dooley The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Jo Ellen Hornish The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Nichole Zesiger The First National Bank of Dennison Richard Dutton Civista Bank Carl Kessler Civista Bank Charles Parcher Civista Bank Harry Singer Civista Bank Shalini Singhal The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Jared Riblet The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Jack Johnson The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Dean Miller The First National Bank of Bellevue Chris Olney North Valley Bank

Ben Norton Buckeye Community Bank

Ginger Vining The Park National Bank

Dennis Hirt CenterBank

Paul Ragias The Community Bank

Luann Snyder The Park National Bank

John Fernyak Mechanics Bank

Douglas Shaw The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Travis Vulich The Union Bank Company

Daron McGuire The Union Bank Company

Stacey Clemens The Union Bank Company

David Roach The Union Bank Company

Mark Johnson First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky

Lewis Renollet Monroe Savings & Loan Association Sarah Worley Monroe Savings & Loan Association Christopher Mooney Peoples State Bank Scott Hill Peoples State Bank Trista Warren The Andover Bank Robert Hamilton The Home Loan Savings Bank Neal Caldwell The Home Loan Savings Bank Peter Cassanos The Park National Bank Cheryl Snyder The Park National Bank Adrienne Brokaw The Park National Bank Klint Manz The Union Bank Company Thomas Will Vinton County National Bank Mark Erslan Vinton County National Bank D. Bruce Knox WesBanco Bank, Inc. Joseph Robinson WesBanco Bank, Inc.

$250-$499 Ann Smith LCNB National Bnak Audra Johnson Ohio Bankers League Brian Bialik Hometown Bank Stewart Greenlee CenterBank Lee Lyon CenterBank Dennis Doutt The Community Bank

Daniel Schutt The Union Bank Company Tina Franks First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Patrick Tackett The Ohio Valley Bank Company Nathan Weaks Civista Bank Andrea Miley Commercial and Savings Bank of Millersburg Douglas Bambeck First Federal Community Bank N.A. Joe Glassco LCNB National Bnak Stephen Varckette The Andover Bank Edward Pollander The Andover Bank John Kobee The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Robert Haley The Hocking Valley Bank Peter Rafaniello The Union Bank Company Robert Curry Civista Bank Donna Jaskolski Civista Bank Kendall Rieman The Croghan Colonial Bank Tracy Baughman The Croghan Colonial Bank Rex Rice The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Jeffery Meeker LCNB National Bank

Nancy Johnson First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky David Kaufman First Federal Community Bank N.A. John H. Siegenthaler Mechanics Bank Brian Miller The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Matthew Nisley The Hocking Valley Bank Mark Snider The Hocking Valley Bank Craig Sweeney The Hocking Valley Bank Robert Gall The Hocking Valley Bank Alan Geiger The Hocking Valley Bank Robert Norris The Hocking Valley Bank Michael Putman The Hocking Valley Bank Kimberly Kelly The Hocking Valley Bank Bradden Waltz The Park National Bank Dan Turben The Park National Bank Dan Iza Kasasa, Inc. Lesley Shirkey The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Greg Dorris First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Lori Drake The Park National Bank

Sally Heckman First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark

C. Russell Badgett The Park National Bank

Jennifer Corbitt The Park National Bank Brett Baumeister The Middlefield Banking Company

Brandon Akey The Park National Bank Edward Rigel The Union Bank Company

Shannon Strow Ohio Bankers League

Douglas Ahlers Versailles Savings and Loan Company

J. Bradley Zellar The Park National Bank

Ronald Collins Vinton County National Bank

Lance Morrison Civista Bank

Steve Fleetwood First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark

Jarvis Woodson Civista Bank Leonard Gundy First Federal Community Bank N.A. Matthew Beachy First Federal Community Bank N.A. Stephen Clinton First Federal Community Bank N.A. Michael Arend The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Carla Waggoner The Croghan Colonial Bank Steven Vandette The Croghan Colonial Bank

Scott Bland First Neighbor Bnak Eric Warrick The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Ralph Root The Park National Bank Benet Rupp The Farmers & Merchants State Bank David Jarvis The First National Bank of Bellevue Bruce Stevens Buckeye Community Bank Angela Hawkins CenterBank

Alexis Smith The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Richard Brinkman First Federal Community Bank N.A.

James Stouffer The First National Bank of Bellevue

Scott Finnell First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Morgan Davis The Hocking Valley Bank

Kris Kreinbihl First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Breann Miller The Home Loan Savings Bank

Michele Larkin First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Brent Saunders The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Kelly Fortney First Federal Community Bank N.A.

David Thomas The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Mary Burns First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Ryan Jones The Ohio Valley Bank Company

Brian Murray First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark

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Timothy Grooms First State Bank

Mitchell Slattery The Hicksville Bank

Deborah Schenk Mechanics Bank

James Schmidt The Hicksville Bank

Daniel Heitmeyer Minster Bank

Kyle Hamilton The Home Loan Savings Bank

Robyn Stevens Peoples Bank Douglas Wyatt Peoples Bank Richard Newlon Peoples State Bank William Daily Riverside Bank of Dublin Craig Cumberworth The Andover Bank Joseph Barker The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Sarah Zimmerman The Croghan Colonial Bank James Bowlus The Croghan Colonial Bank Marilyn Johnson The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Mark Wenick The Farmers National Bank of Canfield Edmund Schafer The First National Bank of Bellevue Adam Crockett The First National Bank of Bellevue Steven Mays The First National Bank of Bellevue Duffield Milkie The First National Bank of Bellevue Michael Winthrop The First National Bank of Bellevue Jerri Miller The First National Bank of Bellevue Melvin Miller The First National Bank of Bellevue Peter Schwager The First National Bank of Bellevue David Benavides The First National Bank of Bellevue Kula Lynch The First National Bnak of Bellevue

18 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

William Unger The Home Loan Savings Bank Jack Coors The North Side Bank and Trust Company Ryan Smith The Ohio Valley Bank Company Kimberly Canady The Ohio Valley Bank Company Brent Eastman The Ohio Valley Bank Company Ryan Smith The Park National Bank

Teresa Deitering The Union Bank Company Robert Benroth The Union Bank Company R. Steven Unverferth The Union Bank Company

$100 to $249 Paul Walker The Union Bank Company Robert Gray The Union Bank Company Laura Baker Mechanics Bank Dakota Durbin Mechanics Bank Martha Schoonover Mechanics Bank

John Brown The Park National Bank

Jenny Romich First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky

Bryan Campolo The Park National Bank

Herbert Huffman The Union Bank Company

Thomas Cummiskey The Park National Bank

Tom Gabrielson Valley Central Savings Bank

Adam Stypula The Park National Bank Lydia Miller The Park National Bank Cheri Hottinger The Park National Bank Bryant Fox The Park National Bank Zachary Reuscher The Park National Bank Paula Meadows The Park National Bank Jody Spencer The Park National Bank Cyndy Sellers The Park National Bank Scott Heimann The Park National Bank Darrell Durham The Park National Bank

Scott Mikula Hometown Bank Colin Boyle Hometown Bank

Joseph Allen The Community Bank Marilyn Sessions Hometown Bank John Compton First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Jennifer Osburn Ohio Bankers League Elaine Evans The Union Bank Company Mark Smith The Home Loan Savings Bank Kathy Norman First Federal Community Bank N.A. Jevon Reile First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky Lawrence Schumacher CenterBank Joseph Bunke Cincinnati Federal William Martin Fidelity Federal Savings & Loan Association Charity McFarland First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark

Donna Kovolyan Hometown Bank

Brian Renner First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Van Wert

Melissa Koher Hometown Bank

Eric Meilstrup LCNB National Bnak

Joseph Sherwood The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Jeffrey Gorman Mechanics Bank

Taryn Marino The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Robin Timbrook The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Vandee Salay The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Barbara Britenriker The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Jane Bruner The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Juan Alonzo The Union Bank Company

Shirley Pew Mechanics Bank Pamela Holsapple Monroe Savings & Loan Association Andrew Davidson Monroe Savings & Loan Association William Hibner Monroe Savings & Loan Association Christina Hassink Monroe Savings & Loan Association Marc Hanneman The Andover Bank Richard Kotila The Andover Bank Stuart Cordell The Andover Bank

Geoffrey Hyman The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Daniel Lease The Croghan Colonial Bank Judy Pusateri The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Jeff Shrader The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Thomas Conidi The Home Loan Savings Bank Andrew Hudson The Ohio Valley Bank Company Frank Davison The Ohio Valley Bank Company Shelly Boothe The Ohio Valley Bank Company Adam Massie The Ohio Valley Bank Company Diana Parks The Ohio Valley Bank Company Barbara Patrick The Ohio Valley Bank Company Connie Craig The Park National Bank Scott Green The Park National Bank Jeffrey Gluntz The Park National Bank Karen Rice The Park National Bank John Stevens The Park National Bank Mickey Schwarzbek The Sherwood State Bank Carol Russell The Union Bank Company Denise Giesige The Union Bank Company Diane Ragless The Union Bank Company John Miller The Union Bank Company

Kevin Lammon The Union Bank Company Kathleen Schnieber Valley Central Savings Bank Bernard Kessling Valley Central Savings Bank Jerome Bey Versailles Savings and Loan Company Jeff Harr Vinton County National Bank Debra Gordon WesBanco Bank, Inc. Andrew Grace WesBanco Bank, Inc. Randall Trickett WesBanco Bank, Inc. Rose Roman The Union Bank Company Jennifer Vastano The First National Bank of Pandora Edward Brady The Park National Bank Mark Honigford The Union Bank Company Michael O'Brien First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Scott Heil First Federal Community Bank N.A. Kathleen Crowley The Park National Bank Sally Gesouras Mechanics Bank Todd Brown Peoples Bank Chris Alexander The First National Bank of Pandora Mark Hamon The Hocking Valley Bank Julie Strohacker The Park National Bank Mike Nagel The Park National Bank Tiffany Kail First Federal Community Bank N.A. Matt Chechak Hometown Bank

Marybeth Shunck Premier Bank Thomas Lueck The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Todd Hawkins The Park National Bank Brad Daniels Valley Central Savings Bank Matthew Stein First Federal Community Bank N.A. Josh Murray First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Rachel Scouler First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Jenn Byrd First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark J. Michelle Crume Ohio Bankers League Michael Penn Southern Hills Community Bank Teresa Buechner Backbase USA Inc. David Baumann Mechanics Bank William Richards The Ohio Valley Bank Company Frank Langenderfer Buckeye State Bank Michelle Davis Peoples State Bank Kevin Connors Peoples Bank Thomas Frawley Peoples Bank Michael Nitchman The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Colton Barnhart Peoples State Bank Lori Edwards The Ohio Valley Bank Company Brad Sander The Union Bank Company Thomas Sansone The Union Bank Company Robert Graham The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Jennifer Knapp The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Alton Thompson The Park National Bank

David Shaver Civista Bank

Gary Reichert The Park National Bank

Nicole Spiker Crowe LLP Gary Koester EAGLE.bank Seth Brenneman IT Resource Gregory Mumea Mechanics Bank Julie Daniels Monroe Savings & Loan Association Sean Dockery The Andover Bank Adam Muir The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Christopher Kelly The Croghan Colonial Bank Willliam Ferris The First National Bank of Dennison Douglas Peterman The First National Bank of Dennison Greg DiDonato The First National Bank of Dennison Brian Williams The First National Bank of Dennison Keith Willoughby The First National Bank of Dennison Lindsey Hamlin The Hocking Valley Bank Cherokee Stover The Hocking Valley Bank Molly Bates The Park National Bank Beth Malaska The Park National Bank Timothy Summers The Park National Bank Edward Gurile The Park National Bank Jason McCulloch The Park National Bank

William Nodo The Park National Bank Brent Nussbaum The Union Bank Company William Perry The Union Bank Company J. Ben Crow Vinton County National Bank Craig Stechschulte The Union Bank Company Donna Brown The Union Bank Company Gary Genenbacher Forvis Kyla Carpenter The Ohio Valley Bank Company Benjamin Pewitt The Ohio Valley Bank Company Kimberly Graber The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Ricardo Rosado The State Bank and Trust Company Brenda Arnold Ohio Bankers League Andi Parkinson First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Lance Bennett The Community Bank April Witte The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Christopher Preston The Ohio Valley Bank Company Jennifer Snode The Community Bank Twyla McCartney First Federal Community Bank N.A. Suzanne Moore First Federal Community Bank N.A. Vaden Fitton Peoples Bank

Carol Chilcote The Antwerp Exchange Bank Company Amy Cover The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Brad Stamm The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Paula Clay The Ohio Valley Bank Company Richard Patellos The Park National Bank D. Ryan Page Southern Hills Community Bank Marilyn Kearns The Ohio Valley Bank Company Heather Dotson The Park National Bank Jason Recker The Union Bank Company Kevin Taylor The Union Bank Company Lori Watson The Union Bank Company Water Dean Vande The Union Bank Company Amy Vasquez The Union Bank Company Michael Cox The Union Bank Company Laura Daniel The Union Bank Company Dian Franks The Union Bank Company Kelli Hunt First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Brandon Krietemeyer Community Banc Consulting, Inc. James Holman The Community Bank Barbara Stamper Mechanics Bank Vickie Reed Hometown Bank

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Trisha Schneider The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Stephenie Wilson First Federal Community Bank N.A.

William Armintrout Southern Hills Community Bank

Robert Michels The First National Bank of Dennison

Brian Hinkle The Park National Bank

Sharon Blair The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Kerry Egler-Whytsell First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Craig Turner Southern Hills Community Bank

Deborah Lukens The First National Bank of Dennison

Michael Mitchell The Park National Bank

Mary Stefko The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Sharon Troyer First Federal Community Bank N.A.

Jeffrey Cloud Southern Hills Community Bank

Linda Clouse The First National Bank of Dennison

Patrick Rastatter The Park National Bank

John Clime First Federal Bank of Ohio

Terry Bumpus First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Centerburg

Lindsay Cloud Southern Hills Community Bank

Joel Nester The Hicksville Bank

Lori Tabler The Park National Bank

Stephen Keen First Federal Bank of Ohio Lawrence Mulligan LCNB National Bank Matt McKenzie First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Alexander Rocks Mechanics Bank Jacob Willey The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Barbara Miller The Park National Bank Vicki Neff The Park National Bank Louis Prabell The Park National Bank Joseph McAuliffe Buckeye Community Bank Andrew Nurre Cincinnati Federal Stuart Anness Cincinnati Federal Montez Shugars Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati Robert McClure First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky Thomas Weithman First Federal Bank of Ohio Steve Kurtzman First Federal Bank of Ohio Donald Plotts First Federal Bank of Ohio Tyler Huggins First Federal Bank of Ohio Steve Tilson First Federal Bank of Ohio

20 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

Michael Brosky First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Lorain Scot Evans First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Newark Tammy Belcher First Mutual Bank, FSB Shalana Shreffler First State Bank Michael Miller LCNB National Bank Curt Walter Mechanics Bank Justin Marotta Mechanics Bank Richard Witchey Mechanics Bank Thomas Siegenthaler Mechanics Bank Jeanne Peters Mechanics Bank Shelly Kiser Mechanics Bank W. Thomas Ross Mechanics Bank Beth Myers Mechanics Bank Philip McClenathan Mechanics Bank Caroline Worner Mechanics Bank Tony Heinl Monroe Savings & Loan Association Curt Conley Monroe Savings & Loan Association Jonathan Steinke Monroe Savings & Loan Association Evan Kleymeyer Ohio Bankers League Mark Kelly Riverside Bank of Dublin

Tim Priest Southern Hills Community Bank Jerry Waits Southern Hills Community Bank Nick McMillen SSB Community Bank Martin Cole The Andover Bank Daniel Weber The Andover Bank Patrick Groner The Andover Bank Cathleen Square The Andover Bank Thomas McLaughlin The Croghan Colonial Bank Brad Elfring The Croghan Colonial Bank Shannon George The Croghan Colonial Bank Allan Mehlow The Croghan Colonial Bank Kent Roth The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Michael Schnitkey The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Steve Planson The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Arthur Short The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Dan Clark The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Katrina Degroff The Farmers & Merchants State Bank David Gerken The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Michael Rywalski The Farmers & Merchants State Bank

Cindy Delagrange The Hicksville Bank Gina Wolfrum The Hicksville Bank Michael Kraus The Hocking Valley Bank Kris Howell The Home Loan Savings Bank Jay Miller The Ohio Valley Bank Company Rick Swain The Ohio Valley Bank Company Brian Hall The Ohio Valley Bank Company Angela Kinnaird The Ohio Valley Bank Company Pamela Smith The Ohio Valley Bank Company Joe Wyant The Ohio Valley Bank Company Cherie Elliott The Ohio Valley Bank Company Allen Elliott The Ohio Valley Bank Company Nathan Counts The Park National Bank Michael Smith The Park National Bank Rachel Brewer The Park National Bank Amber Cummins The Park National Bank Michael Dudgeon The Park National Bank Donald Harris The Park National Bank

Tina Taley The Park National Bank Jenny Ward The Park National Bank Ryan Wood The Park National Bank Christa Wright The Park National Bank Amanda Evans The Park National Bank Karen Pavone The Park National Bank Brenda Shamblin The Park National Bank Linda Staubach The Park National Bank Jeff Guminey The Park National Bank Candy Wade The Park National Bank Kelly Herreman The Park National Bank George Cooper The Park National Bank Anthony Eramo The Union Bank Company Kenneth Wenner The Union Bank Company Jan Wood The Union Bank Company Dylon Lause The Union Bank Company Joyce Kuhlman The Union Bank Company

Quentin Kuhlman The Union Bank Company Melissa Niese The Union Bank Company Norman Schnipke The Union Bank Company Jason Thornell The Union Bank Company Karen Maag The Union Bank Company Chase Doll The Union Bank Company

James Papakirk Valley Central Savings Bank Don Vonderhaar Valley Central Savings Bank Ed Pokora Valley Central Savings Bank Fred Debiasi Valley Central Savings Bank

Chris Knight United Bankers Bank

Doug Borchers Versailles Savings and Loan Company

Randy Davis Valley Central Savings Bank

Kevin Drees Versailles Savings and Loan Company

Anita Procaccino Valley Central Savings Bank

William Garrett Vinton County National Bank

John Stretch Valley Central Savings Bank

Christyne Calvin Vinton County National Bank

Brian Reisert Valley Central Savings Bank

Tom Oyer Vinton County National Bank

Bank on it.

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WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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22 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

WHAT BANKERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ADULT CANNABIS USE IN OHIO On November 7, 2023 voters in Ohio approved Issue 2, legalizing adult use marijuana. So, what do bankers need to know about adult-use in Ohio?

It's important to note that this was not a constitutional amendment but a citizen-initiated ballot, so the state legislature has the opportunity to adjust the draft language as they see fit within a 30-day period. While there was some concern that Governor DeWine and other members of the state legislature might decide to ignore the outcome of the vote, their subsequent actions suggest this is highly unlikely. There may be some minor changes to things like per-product THC concentration limits, but we can likely expect these main points to remain intact: • A new regulatory agency, the Division of Cannabis Control, will be established in the Department of Commerce, consolidating the three agencies that currently regulate the medical program • There will be 90 brand new adult-use licenses available, 40 cultivation and 50 retail, with an opportunity to increase those numbers after 24 months should there be sufficient demand What does this mean for banks in Ohio? While medical marijuana was legalized in 2016 the program has been

relatively limited in scope and scale. The entire industry has been served by a handful of financial institutions and there hasn't really been a lot of opportunity for new banks interested in cannabis to participate in the market.

However, with 90 new licenses on the way that’s about to change. It’s anyone’s game now and both existing and new financial institutions will be faced with challenges retaining, converting, and/or bringing on new cannabis customers. The most effective way to do this is to move beyond depository services by offering other financial products like lending. Whether a bank’s appetite is for small revolving lines of credit or multi-million dollar loans for buying a building or completing a build-out, lending reduces the reliance on the account maintenance fees that will invariably be driven down when supply and demand shifts in favor of the consumer.

So, what kind of resources are in place in Ohio to support financial institutions that want to bank cannabis? In the draft language for the adult use program, as in the existing medical regulations, there are protections in place for financial institutions that bank cannabis. Think of it like a local SAFE Banking Act. Some would argue this is largely symbolic because the federal government is still involved in regulating financial institutions (think FDIC insurance) but it does indicate that the state acknowledges how important banking is to the growth and health of the industry. In fact, the state goes so far as to make certain information available about cannabis businesses directly to the financial institutions that serve them:

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• Whether an individual or entity with whom the financial institution is seeking to do business is an adult use cannabis operator or adult use testing laboratory licensed under the Act; • The name of any other business or individual affiliated with the individual or entity; • An unredacted copy of the adult use cannabis license application and any supporting documentation that was submitted by the individual or entity; • If applicable, information relating to sales and volume of product sold by the individual or entity, except where prohibited by the Act;

analysts suggesting the market will be worth as much as $4 billion in the first couple years of the program. Every single business and individual involved in that $4 billion industry needs to be banked, and every smart cannabis entrepreneur is getting their ducks in a row now (even before they know what the final rules will look like) so it is time for every financial institution interested in cannabis to start building or adapting their programs to new market dynamics. Luckily, bankers in Ohio are in one of the very few states where the cannabis and banking regulators essentially put their money where their mouth is and say, “here are the tools you need to do your enhanced due diligence and account monitoring effectively.”

• Whether the individual or entity follows the Act; and

Paul Dunford, ACBP, CAMS Co- Founder, VP of Knowledge, Green Check

• Any past or pending violation by the individual or entity of this Chapter, and any penalty imposed on the individual or entity for such a violation.

The economic impact of adult-use legalization on the state’s economy will undoubtedly be profound, with

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That’s Bankers Alliance.

info@bankersalliance.org or (833) 683-0701.

WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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THE CHANGING FACE OF LEADERSHIP Simply stated, a leader is someone others follow.

Leadership is not a title. It’s not a reward for length of employment. It’s an act of service that inspires people toward a shared vision.

If you’ve been in bank leadership for a while, you know the role is changing. Perhaps more accurately, followership is changing. It’s not that people no longer want to be led.

What’s changing is how and by whom they want to be led.

The good news is that leaders who recognize and adapt to these changes will thrive. They will attract talent and give their banks a competitive advantage. Those who don’t will face increasing frustration in their role and decreasing returns in their results.

What type of leader does today’s workforce want to follow? Here are three qualities.

Empathic Leaders. To attain a leadership position requires the possession of skills and knowledge required for the role. No one will follow a leader who lacks core competencies. But increasingly what employees want is not just a leader who is competent. They want a leader who cares. Research conducted by McKinsey & Company and reported in The State of Organizations 2023 found that leaders believe employees quit when looking for better jobs, compensation, and work-life balance. However, employee surveys revealed that among their top reasons for leaving was not feeling valued. “The employers were focusing on transactional elements of the work experience while employees were asking for more emphasis on relational factors.” Empathic leaders create meaningful, professional connections with those they serve.

Investing Leaders. Employees in our current workforce plan on having multiple roles throughout their work career. They’re not likely to see working at your bank as an end point but rather as another stop on their vocational journey. Your most talented and growth-

minded employees aren’t looking for a boss. They want a coach—someone who will help them develop. Top leaders invest time and energy in the growth of their people. They challenge, encourage, and empower.

Investing leaders can promise, “Whether you work with us three months, three years, or thirty years, you will leave here better than when you arrived.” Ironically, preparing talented employees for future opportunities may be the very thing that keeps them in their current one.

Growing Leaders. As leaders we sometimes feel the need to present an image of having arrived. We have the skills. We have the answers. We think our faults are minor and mostly hidden. Our employees know better.

When we are unwilling to acknowledge or seem unaware of our humanness, trust erodes, and connection is severed. It’s counterintuitive, but we’re seen as weak when we hide behind a façade of strength. Conversely, as Brene Brown has said, “Vulnerability is not weakness.

It’s our most accurate measure of courage.” Even so, vulnerability in and of itself, isn’t enough for a leader.

Having acknowledged our growth opportunities, we must then address them. Leaders others want to follow are aware of their limitations and courageously seek to grow beyond them. They read books, find training, and pursue counseling. They model a growth mindset.

Today’s workforce wants a different type of leader.

Becoming more empathic, investing, and growing will make you the leader they desire.

Ned Pauley Executive Consultant & Director, Trellis™ at Haberfeld npauley@haberfeld.com (402) 323-3608

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Bank Management School class of 2023 poses for a group photo.

LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS PREVAIL BANK MANAGEMENT SCHOOL & BANK LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE RECAP The future of the Ohio banking industry remains strong as member institutions continued to turn to the OBL for leadership and management education opportunities in the fall of 2023. The OBL Bank Management School and the OBL Bank Leadership Institute, two premier OBL programs, provided guidance and development for this next generation of leaders.

2023 OBL Bank Management School Held in September, 30 bankers participated in the week-long intensive program that put all attendees in the “c-suite.” Bankers operated BankExec teams as they made decisions across 8 quarters, while attending sessions focusing on Financial Management Essentials, Bank Investments and ALM, as well as CyberSecurity, Team Building and more.

A highlight of the 2023 program was the addition of a CFO Panel. OBL Education Manager Julie Kiplinger, said, “The CFO Panel allowed students to ask current CFOs about how they handle day-to-day operations and decision-making, as well as strategic planning.” The popular CEO Panel also returned.

At the conclusion of the program, a partial scholarship was awarded to the Graduate School of Banking – Madison. Mitch Duale, First Federal Savings & Loan

28 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

Graduate School of Banking Scholarship Recipient, Mitchell Duale from First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Lakewood, poses with Mike Adelman during the award ceremony.

Association of Lakewood received the award based on his pre-work and participation in the BankExec program and classroom discussion.

2023-2024 OBL Bank Leadership Institute Under the facilitation of Debbie Peterson, Getting to Clarity LLC, and Joe Micallef, Grow Up Sales, the 20232024 class of “BLI” began in September with 27 bankers.

These students will learn to empower others and gain leadership and organization skills as they meet four times throughout the year.

A highlight of the program will be participation in the 2024 OBL DC Fly-In (March 5 - 7, 2024), which provides an opportunity for bankers to see grassroots efforts in action. Other Bank Leadership Institute sessions focus on: Personal Leadership – Becoming a Better Leader for YOU; Performance Leadership; and Excellence in Communications and Performance.

Past students rave about the program and the instructors, while participating banks reap the benefits.

To find out more about the program and/or for testimonials from students and their executive leaders who support BLI and Bank Management School, reach out to education@ohiobankersleague.com.

2023 GRADUATES Julianna Begalla, The Farmers National Bank of Canfield Will Bibler, The First National Bank of Pandora Emma Brown, Park National Bank Brian Collentine, Van Wert Federal Savings Bank Andrew Dinger, Mechanics Bank

Mitchell Duale, First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Lakewood Kacey Fetter, First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky Seth Follis, Kingston National Bank Zach Gay, The Farmers National Bank of Canfield Kelsey Gibson, First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky Robert Haley, The Hocking Valley Bank

Sarah Husk, Ohio Bankers League Brandon Krietemeyer, Community Banc Consulting, Inc. Brock Krietemeyer, Community Banc Consulting, Inc. Jason Maassel, The Farmers & Merchants State Bank Larry Maniche, The Middlefield Banking Company Laurence Mily, Park National Bank

Jennifer Morgan, Fairfield Federal S&L Assoc. of Lancaster

Tiffiny Steinhour, First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky

Greg Nolder, Park National Bank

Derek Stipetich, Computer Services, Inc. (CSI)

Sara Ream, Civista Bank

Ellie Stoneburner, First Citizens National Bank of Upper Sandusky

Brandy Sasser, The North Side Bank and Trust Company

Jason Sutherland, The Covington Savings and Loan Association

Nick Schulte, The North Side Bank and Trust Company

Amy Vasquez, The Union Bank Company

Krista Siegfried, Park National Bank

Lisa Wiseman, Kingston National Bank

Cristy Siegrist, LCNB National Bank

Registration for both the 2024 OBL Bank Management School and the 2024-2025 Class of BLI is now open. Check the website for details.

The Bank Leadership Class of 2023-24 poses for a group photo.

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BRINGING BANKERS TOGETHER THROUGH OBL FORUMS One of the foundations for the Ohio Bankers League is to provide a collaborative atmosphere for the industry.

That is true not only on the OBL BankServices product front and at the Statehouse on the Government Relations front; it is also true on the Professional Development front. Peer learning and sharing and a feeling of camaraderie that ‘we are in this together’ will enable the industry and its leaders to thrive in the future.

OBL Forums were introduced to members more than 10 years ago and designed with that purpose in mind.

These eight peer groups are based around individual banking functions and keep bankers on the cutting edge of the industry they serve. 2024 OBL Forums include: CFO Forum; Commercial Lending Forum; Educators & Training Forum; Human Resources Forum; IT Forum; Marketing Forum; Mortgage Lending Forum and Senior Retail Forum.

Each forum features three learning sessions throughout the year, where members are invited to submit hot topic ideas to help to build the agendas.

Forum participants learn from expert facilitators, as well as gain valuable insights from fellow members, as each session features time for engaging roundtable discussions and networking.

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2024 Forums “Bringing Bankers

Together”

stry. These ng edge of their indu bankers on the cutti Forum members are ose in mind – to keep ughout the year. OBL gned with one purp icipants learn part tions and meet thro m func Foru s. king OBL Forums are desi nda ban l age d around individua to help to build the bers, as each peer groups are base nce of each session hts from fellow mem topic ideas in adva gain valuable insig forums, as well as invited to submit hot and networking. ts who facilitate the dtable discussions roun g agin eng from expert consultan for session features time

JOIN TODAY! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR 2024 OBL FORUMS. Reach out to education@ohiobankersleague.com for more information or peer testimonials.

What do 2023 OBL Forum members have to say about the programs?

The CFO Forum has provided a great setting to discuss questions and current banking environment issues and concerns. The program has also provided a great network of professionals to reach out to outside of the meetings to get input on timesensitive topics.

– Lindsay Alton, Strategic Finance Manager, Mechanics Bank As a member of the Education & Trainers Forum, I enjoy collaborating with fellow bankers who work in Training.

I discovered many take aways from discussions we had during the session that will help me on current and future projects at my financial institution.

– Kara Petersen, Retail Specialist, F&M Bank I love the format of the Retail Forum as it allows for open discussion about many challenges we are facing as community banks. I always walk away with some great insight and ideas to help us improve.

– Stacy Smith, Market Manager, First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Delta

The (IT Forum) presenters from infotex and SBS CyberSecurity are very knowledgeable and informative on the hot topics that I need to know about most.

– Levi Ostrowski, Systems Administrator, First National Bank of Pandora “If your bank is not already taking advantage of at least one of these OBL Forums, we invite you to find out what others already benefit from and understand. OBL Forums truly do bring bankers together – and will help to keep the industry strong.”

– Michelle Crume, Executive Director OBL BankServices, SVP Professional Development, Ohio Bankers League

Floodplain Consultants Inc. F

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"We visit the site!" www.floodplain.com

ENDORSED OBL BUSINESS PARTNER WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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The Baker Approach MEETING CLIENT NEEDS » Asset Liability Management » Investment Portfolio Services » ALM/Investment Education » Funding/Liquidity Management » Bond Accounting/Analytics/ Software Solutions

To be successful in today's financial climate, you must have not only the proper partner, but also the proper approach to achieve high performance.

The Baker Group is this partner, and our approach is to offer sound strategies and accurate information to guide your institution to the next level. This is the reason we’ve been the industry’s recognized leader in innovation for more than forty years.

» Public Finance

To experience The Baker Approach in meeting your

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financial objectives, call your Baker representative or Ryan Hayhurst at 800.937.2257.

www.GoBaker.com | 800.937.2257 Oklahoma City, OK | Austin, TX | Long Island, NY | Salt Lake City, UT | Springfield, IL | Member: FINRA & SIPC The Baker Group LP is the sole authorized distributor for the products and services developed and provided by The Baker Group Software Solutions, Inc.

32 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN BANKS: A KEY TO SUCCESS As banks and credit unions face an ever-evolving landscape that requires adaptability and innovation, they would be wise to take stock of their change management processes. This article describes recent comments by financial regulators about managing change. It also highlights the pivotal role that change management plays in the success of financial institutions.

Banking examiners will focus on managing change Change management is a structured approach to transitioning individuals, teams, and organizations from their current state to a desired future state. It is a systematic process that helps manage the complexities of change, ensuring that new initiatives are smoothly implemented, and the desired outcomes are achieved.

For years, banking and credit union examiners have stressed the importance of change management in reducing risk at financial institutions. More recently, the OCC identified change management as one of its supervision priorities for the year ahead. Specifically, examiners are directed to assess how banks are implementing significant changes in the following four areas:

• Leadership • Operations • Risk management frameworks • Business activities (including the use of third parties to support critical activities).

According to the OCC, examiners should "determine the suitability of governance processes, including acquisition or retention of qualified staff, when the board or management undertakes significant changes" related to: • M&A • System conversions • Regulatory requirements • The implementation of new, modified, or expanded products and services (such as the use of technological innovations) This spotlight by the OCC provides the “stick” that may prompt some financial institutions to assess or revise change management practices. But banks and WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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changes made within the organization are aligned with customer expectations. This customer-centric approach leads to enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Strategic alignment: Change management aligns organizational objectives with the changes being implemented. It ensures that every change is in sync with the institution's overall strategy, enabling a cohesive and unified approach towards achieving organizational goals.

Conclusion: Institutions can thrive amid change

credit unions can realize significant benefits when they incorporate change management strategies. Below are six such advantages.

Benefits of change management

The OCC's emphasis on change management underscores its pivotal role in shaping the future of financial institutions. By embracing change management strategies, these institutions can not only navigate the challenges of the modern financial landscape but also thrive in it. As the industry continues to evolve, change management remains a cornerstone, enabling financial institutions to innovate, adapt, and deliver exceptional value to their stakeholders.

Learn more about change management assistance.

Speak to an Abrigo advisor (https://www.abrigo.com/ advisory-services/change-management/).

Enhanced adaptability: Financial institutions are subject to numerous regulatory changes, technological advancements, and market fluctuations. Change management equips these institutions with the tools to adapt swiftly and effectively to these changes, ensuring they stay ahead in the competitive market.

Improved employee morale: Change, if not managed well, can lead to resistance and a drop in employee morale. Change management strategies involve clear communication, training, and support mechanisms, fostering a positive environment where employees feel valued and engaged, even amid change.

Optimized operations: By streamlining processes and implementing best practices, change management optimizes operational efficiency. It identifies inefficiencies, eliminates redundant processes, and encourages the adoption of innovative technologies, resulting in cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.

Risk mitigation: Change, when not managed properly, can introduce risks. Change management methodologies include risk assessment and mitigation strategies, ensuring that potential risks are identified early and necessary actions are taken to minimize their impact.

Customer-centric approach: Understanding and responding to customer needs are fundamental in the financial industry. Change management ensures that

34 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

Bailey Barretto PMP, Abrigo

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WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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Economic Passageways 2024 OBL Economic Summit

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Greater Columbus Convention Center Join the OBL, OSCPA & OMBA for this 15th annual event featuring President Loretta Mester with an Update from the Federal Reserve and William Greiner, CFA, Chief Economist from Mariner Wealth Advisors speaking on Economic Passageways.

Register Today!

Visit ohiobankersleague.com for more information and to register.

36 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

SUCCESSION AT THE TOP: LESSONS LEARNED FROM CEO TRANSITIONS There is no more vital decision for a bank and its’ Board of Directors than who leads the organization. Yet leadership succession represents a growing challenge, as banks too often lack sufficient executive depth or proper succession planning. In the worst cases, banks with both weak succession and performance issues may even be encouraged to find a merger partner.

Board has a responsibility to tackle succession no matter how awkward it may be, so have these conversations early and often.

Having conducted over fifty CEO/Succession search assignments, we have clearly seen that superior talent really does make a difference, especially for banks intending to remain

A robust, thoughtful and thorough succession process adds huge credibility to the Board and the bank, regardless of whether your successor comes from within or outside of the bank. Take the time up front to ensure the alignment of your organization’s strategic plan with the ideal profile of your next CEO. The Board can’t spend too much time getting to know its future leader.

long term survivors. From these accumulated client experiences, we have identified Seven Lessons Learned from CEO Transitions:

LESSON #1:

Succession Really Does Matter!

It is imperative that Boards exercise their fiduciary and governance responsibilities, and grapple with the challenges of leadership succession. The continuity of leadership promotes continuity of strategy, and both regulators and governance activists are more focused than ever on succession. There is also a growing body of information which affirms that a lack of planned orderly succession can have a significant impact on the value of the company.

LESSON #2:

The Elephant in the Room Cannot Be Ignored.

Where is the elephant in your boardroom? It’s a delicate question—one I am often reticent to even ask. Who is the stumbling block to planning for the bank’s future leadership? Is it the CEO who refuses to accept that he/ she will not live forever, or are there Directors who do not want to raise this issue with their friend the CEO? The

LESSON #3:

The Succession Process is as Important as the Outcome.

LESSON #4:

You Really CAN Do It! Develop Your Own Methodology & Timeline.

Each succession situation and timeline are different, so there is no definitive template to follow. That being said, begin your efforts no less than 30-36 months before you anticipate a potential transition of leadership. It is also very helpful to formally anoint a Succession Committee of the Board (note: this is not a search committee) to take ownership of this process and manage the many critical elements along the path. This makes the succession effort more manageable and provides for accountability.

LESSON #5:

It is Critical to Handle Potential Internal Contenders Well.

Ideally, your succession planning process will promote the development of several internal contenders, and it is important to manage their expectations from the beginning. Handling internal contenders well WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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has a significant impact on how they feel about the company, and their potential to still see their future in the organization. Position the entire exercise as a developmental opportunity, and provide constructive feedback and specific recommendations for folks who are not selected for advancement.

LESSON #6:

The Building Blocks of Talent Development Make a Big Difference Over Time.

Nearly all of the data on succession reinforces that well developed internal successors perform better than outside hires. Thus, efforts to groom “high potentials” for more senior roles should be ongoing. Create a Personal Development Plan for each individual with upside potential.

Help them develop stronger and more varied technical skills, as well as more training in “soft” skills. Whatever talent development efforts you initiate, they will make your business stronger and aid the retention of your rising stars.

LESSON #7:

Avoiding the Challenges of Succession May Have a Huge Downside.

Research from FTI shows that 43% of CEO Transitions are unplanned, with 27% due to either forced resignations

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or unexpected issues which arise; the rest are voluntary unplanned resignations. Unexpected leadership changes are not only shown to impact the valuation of the business, but banks without good succession are also proven more likely to sell out.

Institutions that we have seen survive and thrive over a lengthy time horizon have benefitted from the successful execution of strategy, which flows from a continuity of leadership. Bank Boards of Directors and incumbent CEOs must recognize this imperative, and regularly focus on succession and talent at the top of their agendas.

Alan J. Kaplan Founder & CEO, Kaplan & Associates, Inc. alan@kasearch.com (610) 642-5644

OUR CORE DOES MORE Turn complex, traditional banking into a digitally advanced and

customer-centric experience.

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At its heart, COCC is a fintech provider with a collaborative approach delivering next gen solutions. Uniquely owned by our clients, we understand the distinctive experiences required to service a community.

100 Executive Boulevard | Southington, CT | www.cocc.com

WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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WHEN CRISIS HITS: TRUE LEADERSHIP EMERGES In the complex banking world, leaders often face the difficult task of balancing profitability, risk management, and customer satisfaction. This balance is frequently disrupted by external forces, such as fluctuating financial markets and interest rates, putting immense pressure on banks of all sizes. Today, these are not just challenges; they are daily battles. This is where true leadership is tested and proven.

crisis was a brutal teacher. Banks had to make hard choices—cuts, layoffs, strategy shifts. Sure, these moves saved many institutions, but they came at a cost: trust and morale took a hit.

The lesson? How you make decisions is just as critical as the decisions themselves.

Non-Negotiables of Leadership in Crisis

The Reality of Banking Let's face it: Banking isn't just a business; it's the economy's lifeblood. As a banker, your decisions ripple through lives and livelihoods. You know that a misstep doesn't just affect your balance sheet—it impacts all the communities you serve.

Financial Markets and Interest Rates: Your Battlefield Volatility in financial markets and changing interest rates aren't just variables; they are your battlefield. These elements affect everything from your loan portfolios to your investment strategies. It's not enough to understand these fluctuations; you must lead through them.

When Crisis Hits: True Leadership Emerges Times of crisis are where real leadership in banking shines. I'm talking about the kind of fearless leadership in making tough calls. Remember 2008? That financial

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Now is not the time to hide in your office and hope the challenges you face disappear. Just like we learned in 2008, how and what we communicate to our team members determines how they view the potential outcome of each crisis. Keep these three key ideas at the forefront.

• Prepare Them: Share your current challenges with each financial institution team member. They already know the challenges you face, and conforming that you know about them and are addressing them goes a long way.

Be careful not to communicate this information in an overly emotional way that could negatively impact you.

Stick with the facts educationally and pragmatically.

• Share With Them: Based on the facts associated with your current situation, share with your team the options your bank is considering and the potential impact on each person and client. Some may be sad while others may be upset – but in the end, everyone appreciates the honesty.

• Listen To Them. It’s incredible how often we share circumstances and facts with our team members but fail to listen to their perspectives for potential solutions.

Don’t assume you have all of the answers!

Get your team involved. Solutions shouldn't just come from the top; they must be a collective effort.

The Role of Values and Purpose in Decision Making In the heat of a crisis, your decisions will show everyone who you are. Decisions made during these times are indicative of a leader's true character.

Purpose-Driven Leadership

positive culture where your team feels supported and valued, boosting morale and productivity. Investing in your people and recognizing them as your most significant asset is crucial. This investment goes beyond financial incentives; it’s about creating an environment where they feel genuinely valued and part of something bigger.

In Conclusion: What Crisis Leadership in Banking Means This isn't just about managing assets and liabilities. It's about leading with guts, vision, and heart. For those of you who are part of the Ohio Bankers League, remember this: Crisis doesn't just challenge you; it reveals you.

Embrace empathy, transparency, and purpose. That's how you turn challenges into victories.

Your decisions should scream your bank's mission and values. This isn't the time for self-preservation; it's the time to double down on what your bank stands for. You must anchor your decisions in your core mission and values as a leader. This approach might mean prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gains or focusing on customer relationships and employee welfare even in challenging times.

Steve Lowisz Founder & CEO, Qualigence International

Examining the actions of successful banking leaders during past crises can provide valuable insights. For instance, some bank leaders choose to focus on strengthening customer trust and loyalty, even when it means absorbing short-term losses. These decisions often lead to long-term sustainability and growth.

OHIO RECOR D The Offic ial

How you talk to your team and customers is everything in a crisis. It's not just what you say, it's how you say it.

Empathy, clarity, and consistency are non-negotiable.

the Ohio Bank

ers Leag ue

FALL 2023 ISSUE

RD OHIO RECO The Offi cial

Navigating Through Communication

Mag azin e of

Mag azin e

of the Ohi

o Ban kers

Lea gue

SPRING 2023

ISSUE

WHAT DOES AI MEAN FO THE FUTURER OF BANKING? Artificial Intellige nce Edition

Business Back to the tion of Banking Edi

Talking the Talk

H A CEO WITN A PASSIO ICE, FOR SERV & TEAMWORK Y COMMUNIT new

1. Empathy: Get on your team's level. Understand their fears and address them head-on.

2. Clarity and Consistency: Be the voice of reason.

Uncertainty is your enemy; clarity is your weapon.

3. Regular Updates: Keep everyone in the loop. No news is not good news in times of crisis.

Building Resilience and Fostering Growth Leading through a crisis isn’t just about navigating through the current storm but building resilience for the future. This requires adaptability – a willingness to change course when necessary. It’s about fostering a

FALL 2023 ISSUE

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w with the An Intervie Brian Young OBL Chair,

SPRING 2023

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Let us know!

Do you have promotions or news for your organization? Submit it to OBL for it to be included in a future installment of Around The Industry. Send information to Audra Johnson at ajohnson@ohiobankersleague.com

WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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STRATEGIC MARKETING PLANNING Spry partners with companies across a range of sectors.

We often provide support in formulating the strategy for their annual marketing plan. Strategic marketing planning for banks is a critical process that shapes their longterm success and growth. Banks play a central role in the financial ecosystem, and the competition within the industry is fierce. To effectively navigate this landscape, banks must develop comprehensive and forward-thinking marketing strategies. We wanted to explore how banks should approach their strategic marketing planning, encompassing key elements such as market analysis, segmentation, positioning, customer-centricity, branding, digital transformation, and measurement.

Market Analysis The foundation of any strategic marketing plan for a bank begins with a comprehensive market analysis.

This entails understanding the macroeconomic factors, industry trends, and regulatory landscape. Banks need to monitor interest rates, inflation, and fiscal policies, as these can greatly influence their business. Additionally, they must stay updated on industry-specific trends, such as technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and emerging competition.

One key aspect of market analysis is identifying market opportunities and threats. Banks should conduct SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analyses to assess their internal capabilities

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and limitations in the context of the broader market.

Opportunities can include untapped customer segments, geographic expansion, or new product and service offerings. Threats may arise from increased regulation, economic downturns, or cybersecurity risks.

Customer Segmentation One of the crucial steps in strategic marketing planning for banks is customer segmentation. Not all customers are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach is rarely effective. Banks should categorize their customer base into distinct segments based on demographics, psychographics, and financial behavior.

Demographics such as age, income, occupation, and location can help banks create tailored products and services for different customer groups. Psychographics encompass values, lifestyles, and attitudes, which provide insight into consumer preferences and behaviors. Banks can identify segments that are more risk-averse, seeking investment opportunities, or in need of basic banking services.

Segmentation allows banks to personalize their marketing efforts, creating targeted messages that resonate with specific customer groups. For example, a bank might offer different credit card products for young professionals, retirees, and small business owners, each tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Positioning Once a bank has identified its target customer segments, it must determine its market positioning. Positioning involves defining how the bank wants to be perceived by its customers relative to its competitors. The goal is to create a distinct and favorable image in the minds of consumers.

Effective positioning should consider the bank's strengths and the needs and desires of the target segments. For example, a bank with a strong focus on technology and digital services may position itself as a cutting-edge, tech-savvy institution, attracting younger, digitally inclined customers. In contrast, a bank with a long history and a reputation for stability may position itself as a trustworthy and secure choice for risk-averse customers.

Positioning should also align with the bank's brand identity, values, and mission. A clear, consistent positioning helps differentiate the bank in a crowded market, creating a compelling value proposition for customers.

Banks should aim for consistency in branding across all touchpoints. This includes the bank's website, mobile app, physical branches (if applicable), social media presence, and advertising campaigns. A consistent brand image reinforces customer trust and makes it easier for customers to recognize and engage with the bank.

In a rapidly changing digital landscape, banks must also consider their online reputation. Online reviews and social media conversations can significantly impact a bank's brand perception. Monitoring and managing the online reputation are part of an effective strategic marketing plan, ensuring that negative sentiments are addressed promptly, and positive experiences are amplified.

Digital Transformation

Customer-Centricity

The advent of digital technology has transformed the banking industry. Banks must embrace digital transformation as a core component of their strategic marketing planning. This involves leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and offer innovative products and services.

In today's banking landscape, customer-centricity is paramount. Banks need to put the customer at the center of their strategic marketing planning. This means understanding customer needs, preferences, pain points, and aspirations and tailoring products and services accordingly.

A well-executed digital transformation can include the development of user-friendly mobile apps, online account management, chatbots for customer support, and digital marketing campaigns. Banks should also explore the potential of emerging technologies like blockchain for secure transactions and AI-driven financial advice.

Customer-centricity goes beyond marketing; it should permeate all aspects of a bank's operations. It involves providing excellent customer service, easy-to-use digital platforms, and personalized financial advice. It also requires actively listening to customer feedback and responding to their concerns.

The digital environment also presents opportunities for marketing through social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.

Banks can use these tools to reach customers where they spend their time online, allowing for more personalized and targeted marketing efforts.

Banks can use data analytics and customer relationship management (CRM) systems to gain deeper insights into their customers' behavior and preferences. With this information, banks can design marketing campaigns and strategies that resonate with their target audience.

For example, if data suggests that a specific segment of customers values sustainable banking, the bank can develop and market eco-friendly financial products.

Branding A strong brand is a powerful asset in the banking industry. It fosters trust, loyalty, and recognition. Effective branding begins with a clear understanding of the bank's identity and values, as well as the emotions it wishes to evoke in customers. This should be reflected in the bank's logo, visual design, messaging, and overall customer experience.

Measurement and Evaluation Strategic marketing planning is an ongoing process, and banks must continually assess and adapt their strategies.

To do this effectively, they need to establish clear performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the success of their marketing efforts.

KPIs can include customer acquisition rates, customer retention rates, conversion rates, and the return on investment (ROI) for marketing campaigns. Banks should also analyze customer feedback and satisfaction scores to gauge their performance in delivering a superior customer experience. Regular evaluation of marketing strategies allows banks to identify what is working and what needs adjustment.

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Regulatory Compliance Banks operate in a highly regulated industry, and regulatory compliance should be integrated into their strategic marketing planning. Banks must ensure that all marketing campaigns and practices adhere to the relevant laws and regulations, including those related to data privacy, consumer protection, and fair lending.

Failure to comply with regulations can result in legal consequences and reputational damage. Therefore, banks should have a robust compliance framework in place to review and approve marketing materials and campaigns.

Crisis Management In today's volatile world, banks should also incorporate crisis management into their strategic marketing planning. This involves developing strategies to respond to unforeseen events that can negatively impact the bank's reputation or operations. These crises may include cybersecurity breaches, financial scandals, economic downturns, or natural disasters.

A well-prepared crisis management plan should outline clear communication protocols, strategies for addressing customer concerns, and actions to mitigate damage to the bank's reputation. It is essential to be transparent and honest in communication during crises to maintain customer trust and confidence.

Competitive Intelligence To stay ahead in the banking industry, banks must keep a close eye on their competitors. Competitive intelligence is a vital component of strategic marketing planning, involving the systematic collection and analysis of information about rival banks and financial institutions.

Understanding the strategies, products, and services offered by competitors can help banks identify gaps in the market, assess their relative strengths and weaknesses, and fine-tune their own marketing strategies. Competitive intelligence can be used to benchmark the bank's performance and make informed decisions about pricing, product development, and marketing campaigns.

Innovation Innovation is another crucial element of strategic marketing planning for banks. Banks need to continuously innovate to meet changing customer demands and stay competitive. Innovation can take many forms, from introducing new financial products and services to

44 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

enhancing the customer experience through technology and automation.

Innovative marketing campaigns can also set a bank apart from its competitors. Creative, out-of-the-box marketing approaches can capture the attention of customers and generate buzz, helping to grow the customer base and increase brand awareness.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility In recent years, sustainability and social responsibility have gained prominence in strategic marketing planning for banks. Consumers increasingly value and support businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental and social issues. Banks can incorporate sustainability into their marketing strategies by offering eco-friendly financial products, supporting community initiatives, and promoting ethical banking practices.

By aligning with sustainability and social responsibility initiatives, banks can enhance their brand image and appeal to a growing segment of socially conscious consumers. However, it's essential for banks to ensure that their actions are authentic.

Strategic marketing planning is a dynamic and multifaceted process for banks. By integrating these elements into their strategic marketing planning, banks can better navigate the complex and competitive banking landscape, attracting and retaining customers while achieving sustainable growth and success.

Jennie Brady Associate Director of Creative Solutions, SPRY, Inc.

Educating Professionals, Creating Leaders

CONGRATULATIONS 2023 GRADUATES FROM OHIO

We congratulate you on completing the rigorous 25-month program and joining the more than 23,000 alumni who have gone on to leadership positions in their organizations, associations and the financial services industry. Best wishes for continued success!

Colton Barnhart Peoples State Bank New Lexington

Jennifer Knapp F&M Bank Archbold

Mindy Bobay The Hicksville Bank Hicksville

Justin Kossow The Park National Bank Newark

Carrie Glick Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland North Ridgeville

Al Lee Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland Concord

Christie Joslin Conneaut Savings Bank Conneaut

Ben Reed The Farmers Bank and Savings Company Pomeroy

Kurt Kappa First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Lakewood

Chip VanDette The Croghan Colonial Bank Fremont

Sponsored by:

GSB.ORG| WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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OBL BANKING CALENDAR

BRANCH MANAGER SERIES PREPS LEADERS FOR FUTURE

Winter Series Begins January 24 (Virtual)

BSA/AML CONFERENCE PROVIDES ANNUAL UPDATES February 20 & 21 (Virtual)

Due to popular demand, the OBL will continue to offer the virtual series Managing a Successful Branch: A Managers Bootcamp three times throughout 2024. Ideal for new and experienced Branch Managers, Assistant Branch Managers, Teller Supervisors, Lead Frontline Professionals, and those aspiring to lead the team in a retail branch, this series deepens banking and retail knowledge and provides a network of peers to share, discuss and learn.

The program, taught by Jennie Sobecki, owner, Focused Results, LLC, will focus on the critical skills and expectations that need to be developed to ensure that the next generation branch manager will exceed expectations and goals set for him or her. Topics include: • Session 1: Managing a Successful Branch • Session 2: Leading Service Excellence • Session 3: Business Development • Session 4: Maintaining Superior Team Performance Participants will engage in discussions, small group activities, and skills practices to ensure that ideas are shared and learning is entertaining and adopted.

Sessions for each series can be attended individually, while discounts are available for the full program.

Now more than ever, it is important to be up-todate with all BSA activity and trends. The 2024 OBL BSA/AML Conference provides these updates, including regulatory updates and other information relevant to the BSA professional.

“Regulatory expectations for BSA continue to remain high, and in fact are increasing, and banks have to react appropriately,” said Instructor Bill Elliott, senior consultant and director of compliance, Young & Associates, Inc. Elliott also said, “There is a continued need to focus on the effective and meaningful elements of a BSA program – and the purpose of this program is to offer not only knowledge, but practical information regarding best practices to comply.”

This conference, held virtually for the 4th year, will discuss many “need-to-know” issues for the BSA/AML professional. This one-day program is designed to focus specifically on all the BSA activity over the last 12 months, including a review of recent FinCEN activity, followed by case studies and other issues discovered during bank reviews.

The program will once again also feature a BSA Basics virtual pre-conference on Feb. 20 from 1-4 p.m. This program provides a review of all portions of BSA and is designed for those who are relatively new to the world of BSA. Questions? Contact Sarah Husk at 614-340-7610.

Contact Julie Kiplinger at 614-340-7612 for further date details or questions.

46 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

SECURITY & TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE April 10-12, 2024 Embassy Suites Columbus Airport

OBL D.C. FLY-IN March 5-7, 2024 Washington D.C.

Impact policy at the 2024 OBL D.C. Fly-In. Join an anticipated 100 banking leaders from across the state at the annual OBL D.C. FlyIn – an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of the Ohio Banking Industry. Attendees will have impactful conversations with influential members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation, where voices will resonate on issues crucial to our industry. Members will engage in dynamic discussions on legislation that could herald positive change, presenting a chance to leave an indelible mark on both your profession and your community.

Attendees will also connect with key figures from federal regulatory bodies, including the FDIC, the Federal Reserve and OCC, gaining unique insights that can drive progress.

Check the OBL website for additional details and registration. Contact Shannon Strow, government relations coordinator, at sstrow@ohiobankersleague.com with questions.

The annual OBL Security & Technology Conference returns to provide bankers with solutions, learning and peer sharing throughout the 3-day conference. As the program features two tracks for Security and Technology, organizations can send bankers to one or both sessions, depending upon roles and responsibilities.

The annual program features topical general sessions from experts such as Jon Waldman, SBS CyberSecurity, and Dan Hadaway, infotex, as well as breakouts and a full OBL BankServices Expo where attendees can find answers to current challenges. Each track also focuses on banker best practices and open forum discussions, as well as peer sharing throughout the event.

“Physical and IT security are more important than ever as bad guys seem to come from every direction,” said Jim Rechel, owner, The Rechel Group, Inc., lead facilitator for the Security Track.

“I encourage organizations to attend this valuable program for the latest trends and information.”

Past attendees have noted the program also provides valuable interaction and engagement between presenters and bankers and the opportunity to learn from others. A 2023 conference-goer said, “The content is topnotch and I always walk away with answers and implementable strategies.”

The conference kicks off the 2024 OBL IT Forum and is included in forum membership. For more details, contact Susan Poling Jones at 614-340-7611.

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Ohio Bankers Benefits Trust

COMING TOGETHER TO CONTROL BENEFIT COSTS In today’s competitive marketplace, benefits have become as important as compensation when hiring or retaining the best and brightest. But health insurance is not inexpensive.

The Ohio Bankers Benefits Trust was developed in 1952 to mitigate health benefits costs by bringing bankers together.

When we harness the collective resources of Ohio’s banks and thrifts, everyone wins.

For more information about the OBL health plan options contact: OBBTCustomerService@ohiobankersleague.com

48 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

OHIO BANKERS BENEFITS TRUST

AROUND THE INDUSTRY Bucyrus, Ohio The Community Investors Bancorp, Inc. and First Federal Community Bank Board of Directors is pleased to announce that it has named Steven R. Crall as President & CEO effective October 9, 2023. Mr. Crall, having served as a Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer with the First Federal Steven R. Community Bank for the past 4 years, brings Crall a wealth of leadership and fiscal management experience to his new position. He succeeds Jeffery K. Urban who was interim President & CEO. Gallipolis, Ohio Ohio Valley Bank recently announced the promotion of Christopher L. Preston to Senior Vice President, Growth Strategist, Ohio Valley Bank, and Vice President of Ohio Valley Banc Corp.

Preston, based at OVB’s Barboursville and Milton, W.Va. locations, began his career

Spotlight PWCampbell Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

James Caliendo

Christopher L. Preston

at the bank working as a teller at OVB’s Jackson Pike Office in 1998. He later relocated to the Jackson Office, where he took on new roles before moving to the Milton Office. Preston was a key member in helping to grow OVB’s customer base in the Cabell County area. During this time, he also found his passion for lending and was eventually named a bank officer. In addition, Preston worked with the bank’s business development efforts.

Dover, OH First Federal Community Bank is announcing the recent promotion of Elizabeth Dorto to Financial Center Manager at its Sugarcreek location at 1115 Cherry Ridge Drive SW in Sugarcreek.

Elizabeth began her banking career with Elizabeth First Federal in 2020 as a Customer Dorto Relationship Associate and became a Teller Supervisor in 2021 before being promoted earlier this year to Financial Service Representative, assisting customers with account and personal lending needs.

PWCampbell, a 113-year-old, fourth-generation retail services and design-build firm and an OBL Endorsed Business Partner, announces that its long-time President & CEO James Caliendo will be retiring on December 31, 2023. Caliendo started at the Company in 1999 as Senior Vice President and has served in his current role for the past 18 years. For the past four years, PWCampbell has been preparing for this succession. Principals and Owners Erin Campbell, Carlin Campbell and Amanda Campbell Caliendo will continue to work closely with an executive team which includes Dean Giordano, Executive Vice President, Design & Construction; Kevin Poirot, Executive Vice President, Branded Environments; Glenn Grau, Senior Vice President, Sales; and Ben Mahtani, Senior Vice President & CIO/CTO. This team has the skills and diversity to take the company forward.

On January 1, 2024, Carlin Campbell will assume the title of CEO, and Dean Giordano will be promoted to Executive Vice President & COO.

Erin Campbell

Carlin Campbell

Amanda Campbell Caliendo

Dean Giordano

“I love this company and feel it is well positioned for great things. Our owners are very talented and experienced, and our executive team has an average of 20 years being with PWCampbell. The past few years have been record-breaking, and I expect that to continue. The leadership team at PWCampbell is strong, and I can’t wait to see where they take the Company in the future.”

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THE TOP TEN

In this quarterly feature, the OBL highlights the ten news articles that you have visited the most at www.ohiobankersleague.com.

1

US SENATE ADVANCES 1071 RESOLUTION

2

SAFER BANKING ACT PASSES SENATE BANKING COMMITTEE

Today the US Senate passed on a bipartisan basis a Congressional Review Act Resolution to overturn the 1071 Small Business Data Collection rule.

The OBL was in DC this morning for the legislative markup of the SAFER Banking Act. The Senate Banking Committee voted 14-9 to advance S. 2860—the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act— out of committee and to the Senate floor.

3

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE THE POTENTIAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

What the OBL expects. As the government approaches another funding deadline here is what Bankers should be concerned about.

4

IN 2024, OHIO TO LAUNCH INNOVATIVE HOMEBUYER SAVINGS ACCOUNT LINKED DEPOSIT PROGRAM, OBL AND TREASURER HOSTING INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR

In the Biennial Budget, the Ohio Legislature passed language creating the Homebuyer Savings Account Linked Deposit Program. OBL and its members have been working with the Treasurer’s office to understand the mechanics of the program to be ready for its 2024 rollout. Join an informational webinar on December 7th to learn more.

5

U.S. SUPREME COURT WEIGHS FATE OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU’S FUNDING MECHANISM

A high-stakes legal battle raises questions about the Agency’s independence and Congressional oversight.

50 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

6

REGULATORS RELEASE FINAL CRA MODERNIZATION RULE

7

FHFA RELEASES LONG AWAITED FHLB REPORT

8

HOW DOES THE SPEAKER BATTLE AFFECT OHIO BANKS

After a six-year process mired by false starts and several iterations, banking regulators released their final CRA modernization plan. We highlight the proposed changes in the proposed rule to gain a deeper understanding of how they might affect OBL member banks and their responsibilities under the CRA.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency yesterday issued its long-expected report on the comprehensive review of the Federal Home Loan Banks, culminating a process that began last year in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the FHLB system.

Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to vacate the office of Speaker, throwing federal public policy and the banking industry’s priorities into unknown territory.

9

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECT LOUISIANA’S REP. MIKE JOHNSON AS NEW SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

After a turbulent few weeks in the House of Representatives, a new Speaker has been elected. OBL provides a profile and an update on where Rep. Johnson stands on the banking industry’s issues.

10

FED'S BOWMAN EXPECTS FURTHER POLICY TIGHTENING WILL BE NEEDED IN STATEMENTS AT OBL MAIN EVENT

Federal Reserve Governor Michelle "Miki" Bowman stated at the OBL Main Event on Tuesday that the U.S. central bank will likely need to raise short-term interest rates again, though for now she is content to assess the data and what it implies for the future of the economy.

Governor Bowman spoke with a small group of bankers before addressing the room of more than 450 attendees.

THERE ARE

MANY KINDS OF FINANCIAL SERVICE ATTORNEYS.

WE ARE ALL OF THEM. At Vorys, we know how to handle all the complexities of the financial world. We also know how to be practical, straightforward and just get the job done. And we have developed a unique and effective interdisciplinary team approach to business that covers every facet of financial services in a cost-effective manner.

For more information, visit vorys.com/banking.

Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP 52 East Gay Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215

Ohio

Washington D.C.

Texas

Pennsylvania

California

London WINTER 2023 ISSUE

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID MONTEZUMA, IA PERMIT NO. 30

OHIO BASED, OHIO OWNED

For the Reliable BOLI Solution, Turn to Banc Consulting Partners With 25 years of experience as a trusted partner for Ohio community banks, Banc Consulting Partners is the stable provider in BOLI design, analysis, compliance and plan administration.

And don’t just take our word for it. Ask the Ohio Bankers League, where we have been a reliable Endorsed Business Partner for the last 19 years. In fact, we have earned the trust of more Ohio community banks than any other firm in the country.

So when you want the best relationship for your BOLI portfolio and a firm that is dedicated to Ohio community banks, talk to Lou Moore at Banc Consulting Partners.

Lou Moore

MANAGING PRINCIPAL 440.356.8860 PHONE 216.789.8889 MOBILE 440.730.3130 FAX lmoore@yourbankpartner.com

52 | OHIO BANKERS LEAGUE

2035 Crocker Road, Suite 103, Westlake, OH 44145 www.bancconsultingpartners.com