Photo Caption: Assistant Vice President/Bellingham Branch Officer Kristina Ruggiero.
Charles River Bank welcomes Kristina Ruggiero as Assistant Vice President and Bellingham Branch Officer. Ruggiero takes on this opportunity following the retirement of Michael Tuite who held this role since the opening of the Bellingham office in 2009 and worked at the Bank for 20 years.
Ruggiero, a resident of Cumberland, RI, brings more than 10 years of banking experience, building a well-rounded background in branch leadership and coaching, retail operations, small business banking and training. Throughout her career, she has worked at Citizens Bank, Bank of America, Middlesex Savings Bank, and most recently Milford Federal Savings Bank.
In her role at Charles River Bank, Ruggiero will oversee the overall operations, customer engagement and business development efforts of the Bellingham branch, ensuring compliance standards are met while continuing a high level of customer service. She will serve as a leader and coach to branch staff, bringing a strong passion for team development and cultivating positive culture.
“I am truly excited to begin my journey with Charles River Bank in Bellingham,” said Ruggiero. “Throughout my career, I have always sought to be part of an organization that genuinely cares about its community and the customers it serves. Charles River Bank’s strong commitment to relationship-based banking and meaningful community involvement deeply aligns with my own professional value. I look forward to building strong connections with the customers and colleagues while continuing with the already outstanding impact the bank has made in the Bellingham community.”
Outside of her professional career, Ruggiero is actively involved in the community. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Equine Empowerment Initiative and supports Dixie Girl Dog Rescue. Kristina looks forward to taking an active role representing the bank in the Bellingham Business Association.
“We are excited to have Kristina lead our Bellingham office,” said Derek Plourde, President and CEO of Charles River Bank. “Her extensive banking background and experience in our local markets make her a tremendous asset to our team. We are confident that her commitment to building strong customer relationships and team development will make a meaningful impact on our bank and our community.”