At this time of year, many of us take time to reflect on the year that is ending while looking forward to the one that is about to begin. For Taylor Bank, the sentiments of reflecting on our past and excitement about what is to come are particularly meaningful this year.
On December 31, 2024, Ray Thompson will be retiring after 22 years with Taylor Bank as President, and the last 16 years as President & CEO. Under Ray’s leadership Taylor Bank has seen continued organic growth while simultaneously remaining a strong, independent, and highly regarded community bank.
Since 2002, when Ray was appointed president, the bank’s assets have grown from just under $400 million to nearly $1 billion today, and the bank’s footprint now encompasses the coastal regions of the entire Delmarva Peninsula.
“Aside from being a husband and father, serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Taylor Bank has been the greatest honor and privilege of my life,” said Ray Thompson. “Our bank's success during my time here is the result of the collective effort, dedication, and commitment of all employees. I am grateful for the accomplishments we have achieved together and the professional and personal relationships we have forged, which I am certain will endure long after I leave.”
While Ray will be greatly missed by everyone at the Bank, we wish him the best as he begins his retirement, which will involve traveling with his wife and spending time in South Carolina.
“I know I will miss interacting daily with our outstanding employees and loyal customers,” added Thompson. “However, every leader knows when it is time for change and a new perspective. This applies not only to me but to the bank as well. We are incredibly fortunate to have an internal candidate that is ready to step up into the role who not only possesses valuable institutional knowledge, but also the vision to lead the bank into the future.”
As the new year begins, Dean Lewis will become Taylor Bank’s 8th President and CEO.
Lewis joined Taylor Bank in January 2012 with 10 years of public accounting experience, the majority of which was spent with PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP. He was promoted to Chief Financial Officer in May 2013 and elected to the Board of Directors in May 2014. Dean currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the bank and Treasurer of the holding company.
“The opportunity to lead a highly respected community bank and its great team of employees into the next chapter of our history is exciting,” said Dean Lewis. “It is my honor to succeed Ray Thompson as President and CEO and continue the tradition of excellence Taylor Bank has been known for throughout our 135-year history. The importance of Taylor Bank to our customers, employees, stockholders and community gives purpose to our mission of remaining a strong independent community bank for future generations.”
“Having the privilege of working closely with Ray over the last 13 years and learning the key attributes that made Taylor Bank successful over the long-term will help me build upon his legacy,” added Lewis.
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In 2025, Taylor Bank will be implementing several key ancillary systems that were made possible by the completion of the core banking conversion in November. These include products, services, and software to keep the bank competitive, secure, and efficient for many years into the future. The goal is to enhance the banking experience and provide the tools necessary to deliver exceptional customer service, protect customers and the bank from fraud, and enhance digital banking channels.
As we appreciate our rich history and anticipate an exciting future, we look forward to continuing to serve our customers in a variety of ways.
Happy New Year!