The Board of Directors also appointed Mr. Hesslink to serve as a Director on the Merchants’ Board, effective January 1, 2016.
Michael R. Tuttle, who currently serves as President and CEO of Merchants, will step down from those positions at the end of 2015, but will remain on the Boards of Directors of both Merchants’ and Merchants Bank. Mr. Tuttle served as President and CEO of the Bank from January 1, 2006 until December 31, 2014 and has served as President and CEO of Merchants since January 1, 2007.
Board Chair Jeffrey L. Davis said that the Board of Directors is "very pleased that Geoff will continue a tradition of extraordinary Merchants bankers and the Board expects this transition to enhance Merchants’ position as a superior community bank. Geoff will continue to bring his passion to leading the Merchants Bank organization during an era of continued change."
Mr. Davis also said, "We thank Mike for all he has done for the organization during his tenure, particularly in navigating the financial crisis, and his proven leadership in strategic initiatives. During Mike’s tenure as CEO, Merchants has established a steady forward momentum with a strong balance sheet, solid credit quality, and excellent growth prospects. He has had an extraordinary banking career."
Mr. Hesslink said, "I am honored at the confidence the Board has shown in me, and am looking forward to my additional responsibilities. The Company is well positioned and I am optimistic about our future. It has been an honor to work with Mike for over 20 years and I am delighted he will continue to contribute to the Company as a Director."
