Danbury-based Union Savings Bank announced that Chelen Reyes is the bank’s next president.
Reyes is responsible for managing the bank’s daily operations and ensuring all activities are in the best interests of customers, employees and the community.
Board Chair Lucie Voves said in the announcement, “As we conducted our search for the next president of Union Savings Bank, Chelen rose to the top, embodying so many of the qualities we believe are necessary to lead this institution well into the future.”
Reyes will be replacing Cynthia Merkle, who has been the bank’s president and CEO. She will remain as CEO for the bank until she retires later this year.
Merkle said of Reyes, “His unique background of banking, marketing and technology gives him a well-rounded perspective on how a community bank can live up to, and even exceed, the expectations of its stakeholders.”
Reyes, whose banking career spans two decades, most recently worked for Hudson Valley Credit Union as its senior vice president.
Reyes said he is excited for the opportunity.
“Cindy (Merkle) and those who held this position before her have brought incredible success to USB,” Reyes said. “I hope that I’m able to do the same.”
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Cesar Abreu joins Ion Bank as branch manager
Longtime banker Cesar Abreu has joined Ion Bank as branch manager for its Wallingford location.
Abreu, a North Haven resident, will support and develop the staff, get involved in the community and work to grow new business.
Laura Gallinoto, senior vice president, retail banking manager, said Abreu prides himself on providing personalized service.
“Cesar’s experience in providing financial services and retail banking will enable him to help businesses, individuals and families attain their financial goals,” Gallinoto said.
Abreu has more than a decade of experience in branch management. He was most recently a branch manager at KeyBank in Cheshire.
