The Village Bank today announced that Kenneth Brennan will retire from his role as Board Chair, with current Board member Thomas Keery stepping into the role effective January 2025. Brennan, who served 10 years as Board Chair and 23 years as President and CEO, will remain a member of the Board.
Mr. Brennan has been a leader at The Village Bank for more than 40 years, serving as both the President and CEO of the Auburndale Cooperative Bank and then as President and CEO of The Village Bank after a merger with the Newton South Cooperative Bank in 2003. The Village Bank grew steadily under his leadership and guidance, expanding into the surrounding Newton villages as well as Wayland and Waltham.
“This is a bittersweet announcement. The Village Bank is very special to me, and I am proud of what we have become, our reputation in the community, and the service we provide our customers,” Brennan said. “We could not have a better, more qualified choice for Chair than Mr. Keery. This transition will foster new energy and leadership in the Chair role and allow me to focus more on my family and wellness in the years ahead.”
Mr. Keery has served on the Board of The Village Bank since 2016, developing deep relationships with its directors, senior leadership team, staff and customers. He owned and operated Frost Motors for 30 years before his latest role as general partner of the Keery Family Limited Partnership, a closely held real estate partnership with commercial and residential properties in Massachusetts. Keery has deep Newton roots and has served as president of the Rotary Club of Newton, treasurer of the West Suburban YMCA Board of Directors, and Board member for the Charles River Chamber of Commerce. He has served on many local and national industry related Boards.
“I speak for the entire team in expressing gratitude for Mr. Brennan’s many meaningful contributions to The Village Bank, and the many community organizations that have benefitted under his leadership,” Keery said. “I am excited by the opportunity to continue to build on his legacy, and grateful to have his continued presence on The Village Bank Board.”
The Village Bank President and CEO Joseph De Vito has worked in his current capacity since Brennan transitioned to Board Chair in 2014.
“The Village Bank leadership team is fortunate to rely on the insights, vision and support of a strong Board. I am personally grateful to Mr. Brennan for his leadership, mentorship and legacy of service and know that Mr. Keery will continue to support the future success of the Bank,” De Vito said. “Both leaders – and our entire Board – share a commitment to The Village Bank’s continued strength as a leading community bank that provides outstanding service to our customers and our communities.”