Steve Heine's Remarkable Legacy at Woodsboro Bank: A Look Back

Steve Heine's Remarkable Legacy at Woodsboro Bank

Steve Heine, the former President and CEO of Woodsboro Bank, has announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. This decision culminates a notable period of over eight years during which Heine transformed the bank, achieving unprecedented growth and reshaping its corporate culture.

A Tenure of Growth and Innovation

Heine’s journey began when he joined Woodsboro Bank in 2017. Under his stewardship, the bank not only doubled its size but also experienced continuous profitability for eight consecutive years. His forward-thinking approach led to the diversification of the bank's services, notably the introduction of secondary mortgage services and treasury management solutions. This expansion catered to the evolving financial needs of the community, further solidifying the bank's reputation.

Redefining Culture and Leadership

Beyond financial metrics, Heine’s influence has been instrumental in redefining the bank’s internal culture and business strategy. He focused on building a strong leadership team, bringing in five of the seven current executive members. Together, they have fostered a collaborative work environment that emphasizes trust and shared responsibility. Under Heine’s guidance, vital core values were established, including mission and vision statements that resonate with community service and customer care.

Heine's leadership philosophy revolved around exceptional client service and innovative financial solutions. This principle became the cornerstone of Woodsboro Bank’s customer interaction, culminating in the adoption of the tagline "Community is our business."

Commitment to Community Service

Heine's dedication to community service has deeply impacted Frederick County, where Woodsboro Bank has actively supported over 150 local nonprofits and educational initiatives. Notably, the bank has contributed scholarships to local students and partnered with Hood College to aid their students and athletic programs. Heine has also been an integral part of various community organizations, including serving as President of The Rotary Club of Carroll Creek and Chair of The YMCA of Frederick County.

Legacy and Future

As Heine prepares to step down, he expresses bittersweet emotions, reflecting on his professional journey. He has ensured that his legacy will continue, as he remains on the bank's Board of Directors. He acknowledges the incredible team at Woodsboro, stating, "I know I'm leaving this incredible institution in the hands of the most capable and dedicated Executive Team in the business."

Gordon Cooley, the Board Chair of Woodsboro Bank, emphasizes Heine’s profound impact, noting that he not only built a successful financial institution but also cultivated a culture of genuine community partnership. He praises Heine's unwavering commitment to the bank and the local area, championing community involvement as a core principle.

Heine’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple accolades, including the Leadership Frederick County Impact Leader Award in 2023 and the Business DoGood-er Award in 2024. Additionally, Woodsboro Bank has been recognized as the 'Best Bank' in Frederick News-Post's Best of the Best Awards for five consecutive years.

A Joint Vision for the Future

Following Heine's retirement, Rich Ohnmacht, the bank's President who will step into the CEO role, reassures stakeholders that the leadership transition will be smooth. Ohnmacht affirms that the foundational values and culture established under Heine will guide the bank into its next chapter. The concept of "One Woodsboro" will continue to be a driving force for the bank's employees, promoting unity and dedication to the community.

With deep roots in the community and a commitment to excellence, Woodsboro Bank is poised for continued success in the years to come. Heine’s tenure not only marks an era of growth but also sets a robust framework for future prosperity. As Woodsboro Bank looks ahead, it does so with the confidence to serve its clients while honoring its commitment to the community.