Wipfli is assisting our client, Partners Bank of Wisconsin, with the recruitment of a Chief Executive Officer. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well‑established, independent community bank with more than a century of service to Central Wisconsin. Headquartered in Marshfield with locations in Spencer and Stratford, Partners Bank is known for its strong local presence, relationship‑based banking philosophy, and commitment to the communities it serves.
The Chief Executive Officer will report to the Board of Directors and provide strategic leadership and overall direction for the organization, ensuring the bank’s continued financial strength, regulatory soundness, and customer‑focused culture. Reporting to the Board of Directors, this role will play a critical part in guiding long‑term growth while preserving the values and community‑bank focus that have defined Partners Bank for generations.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
- Lead the strategic growth, profitability, and overall performance of the bank in alignment with the Board of Directors' vision and goals.
- Drive business development initiatives by cultivating customer relationships, identifying new market opportunities, and expanding the bank's presence within the community.
- Provide executive leadership and guidance to bank departments, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and exceptional customer service.
- Oversee lending operations, portfolio quality, and risk management to ensure the safety, soundness, and long-term success of the organization.
- Partner with the Board of Directors and leadership team to develop and execute strategic initiatives and long-range business plans.
- Represent the bank within the community, industry organizations, and professional associations to strengthen relationships and enhance visibility
- Lead, mentor, and develop team members, supporting talent acquisition, performance management, and professional growth.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while promoting operational excellence and continuous improvement across the organization.
- Monitor key financial and operational metrics, proactively identifying opportunities and challenges to achieve organizational objectives
- Serve on and support key committees, contributing to strategic decision-making and organizational success.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field required; MBA, Graduate School of Banking, or other advanced education preferred.
- Minimum of 15-20 years of progressive banking experience, including 5-10 years in senior executive leadership roles with demonstrated responsibility for organizational performance and growth.
- Extensive knowledge of commercial and retail banking, lending, credit administration, financial management, asset/liability management, and strategic planning.
- Strong understanding of banking regulations, risk management practices, compliance requirements, and regulatory relationships with agencies such as the FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve.
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and business development abilities, with a track record of successfully working with boards of directors, community stakeholders, customers, regulators, and business leaders.
- High degree of integrity, sound judgment, professionalism, and confidentiality, with the ability to foster a culture of accountability, compliance, and exceptional customer service.
About
This position is based on-site in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the headquarters of Partners Bank and a thriving regional hub in the heart of Central Wisconsin. Known for its strong sense of community, outstanding quality of life, and family-friendly atmosphere, Marshfield offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity and small-town charm. Residents enjoy excellent schools, affordable housing, a vibrant local business community, and access to high-quality healthcare, recreation, and cultural amenities. Located within easy driving distance of larger metropolitan areas while maintaining its close-knit community feel, Marshfield provides an ideal environment for individuals seeking both personal and professional fulfillment.
Benefits
- At Partners Bank, they invest in their employees by offering a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial well-being, work-life balance, and professional growth. Eligible employees may enjoy:
- Health insurance with employer premium contributions for full-time employees and family coverage options
- Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions to help manage healthcare expenses.
- Dental insurance with employer-paid premium support
- Employer-paid life and AD&D insurance coverage
- Employer-paid long-term disability insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan featuring employer contributions, profit sharing, and matching opportunities
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) participation
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Wellness reimbursement for eligible fitness-related expenses
- Tuition reimbursement and support for education, seminars, and professional development
- Paid time for blood donation and volunteer incentive opportunities
- Employee banking benefits, including free checking and savings accounts, safe deposit box, money orders, and loan discount opportunities
If you are an enthusiastic leader who prides themselves on providing excellent customer service and would like to learn more about this opportunity, please submit your resume via our client application portal.
Partners Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer
