In April, Mount Pleasant-based Pilgrim Bank announced that it has hired John Russell to serve as vice president/relationship manager and Ben Taylor has joined the bank as assistant vice president/relationship manager.
Prior to joining Pilgrim Bank, Russell spent the better part of 16 years in public education, in both the classroom as an agriculture science teacher and then into administration roles as assistant principal and business manager. A native of East Texas, he holds a BS degree in poultry science and forestry from Texas A&M University–College Station and went on to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership from Texas A&M University–Texarkana.
“John brings a thoughtful, people-first approach to leadership that is essential in relationship management,” says Brad Lowry, chief lending officer and chief operating officer. “His experience working with families, organizations and community leaders gives him a strong foundation to serve our customers with care and insight.”
“John’s background and character speak volumes,“ says Brent Woodruff, CEO. “He understands the importance of trust, communication and long-term relationships.”
Russell is actively involved in the Mount Pleasant community. He serves on the Chapel Hill Education Foundation, coaches Chapel Hill Little Dribblers and is a member of the Mount Pleasant Lions Club and Delta Waterfowl/Mount Pleasant chapter.
Taylor joins Pilgrim Bank after spending five years with Guaranty Bank & Trust NA, where he advanced through several roles, including credit analyst, mortgage underwriter, mortgage loan processor and personal banker. A Mount Pleasant native, he earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Central Arkansas. He also completed additional professional education through Champions School of Real Estate and holds a ProSight Commercial Lending School Certificate through RMA Commercial Lending.
Taylor remains actively involved in the Mount Pleasant community. He is a member of Tennison Methodist Church, serves on the Mount Pleasant Country Club board and volunteers as president of the Men’s Golf Association at MPCC. He also coaches 6U Yankees in the Mount Pleasant Youth Baseball Association.
“Investing in people like Ben—who are committed to both professional excellence and community involvement—is central to Pilgrim Bank’s mission,” says Ken Pilgrim, senior chair.
“Ben’s strong character, community leadership and wide-ranging banking experience reflect the values this bank was built on,” adds Lonnie Pilgrim, chair.
Established in 1911, Pilgrim Bank operates 14 banking offices across East Texas.
