Changing Times. Changing Definitions.

Executive Spotlight: Bob Coffin – EVP/Chief Quality Management Officer

For decades, Bob Coffin has lead Penn Community Bank’s growth by providing support, credit information, and loan policies and procedures to ensure the overall quality of the bank’s lending portfolio. As Chief Credit Officer with years of financial services experience, this traditional banking position came to help define the bank’s soundness and overall quality.

But, as Penn Community Bank emerged from the pandemic and increased social discussion on the role of businesses in the communities they serve, internal stakeholders across the organization began an open and honest conversation about what defines “quality” in 2022? Beyond credit quality – the fiduciary trustworthiness of a community bank to fulfil its basic function – what do customers and community members expect from a quality institution.

In line with these discussions and rooted in Penn Community Bank’s longstanding commitment to its mission and belief in corporate responsibility, the 150-year old organization for the first time created a Chief Quality Management Officer.

Coffin, now filling this new role, is tasked with drawing on his professional experience to broaden the bank’s philosophy on what marks “quality” and, in doing so, ensure upward mobility for everyone in the region – not just those traditionally served by financial institutions. In addition to supporting credit responsibilities, he’ll oversee special initiatives centered on Fair Lending practices and build upon the bank’s foundational mutual structure to ensure it fulfills its values-driven brand promise.

“Working closely with our internal team – as well as local nonprofits and governmental agencies – I am excited to advance programming that increases access to financial stability and economic self-sufficiency,” said Coffin. “No matter their size, businesses have a responsibility to advance common goals and help everyone thrive – not just those already served.”

Jeane M. Vidoni, president and CEO of Penn Community Bank, summed up the role as just one part of a larger organizational realignment to better reflect the bank’s culture and goals.

“For too long, banking and financial services have been tied to the traditions and structures of the past. I’m proud of Penn Community Bank’s role in breaking the mold and investing in a new position to authentically live out our mission to help individuals, families, businesses, and entire communities grow and thrive. We’re setting a new benchmark for quality, together.”