Webster Bank President and COO Gerald Plush, who was perceived as a heavy favorite to succeed CEO Jim Smith, has resigned, the bank announced.
The Waterbury bank said Plush has decided to pursue other career interests. His resignation is effective Sept. 30.
Plush was promoted to the bank’s No. 2 position in 2011.
“Jerry has made many important contributions in increasingly responsible roles, becoming only the fourth President in our 78 year history,” Smith said in a statement. “I’ve enjoyed a close working relationship with him and have always admired his remarkable energy and creative leadership in relentless pursuit of our strategic goals. Jerry’s colleagues and I appreciate his extraordinary efforts and dedication in helping guide Webster along the path to high performance. We respect his decision and wish him success and happiness in the years ahead.”
Plush was quoted in the announcement as saying he believes Webster is on a path to high performance.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have been able to contribute in a number of roles over my seven years here,” Plush said. “I have such a great sense of accomplishment in having worked together with Jim, the board, and the team here to help Webster progress to where it is now.”
