#USA #Olympia #Heritage Financial #CEO Transition #Bryan D. McDonald

Heritage Financial Corporation Welcomes Bryan D. McDonald as President and CEO

Olympia, Washington - In a significant leadership change, Heritage Financial Corporation, the parent company of Heritage Bank, has appointed Bryan D. McDonald as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This announcement was made on May 6, 2025, as part of a pre-planned succession strategy established in June 2024. McDonald’s appointment is effective immediately, and he is also set to serve on the Board of Directors for both the company and the bank, ensuring a smooth transition in leadership.

Prior to this new role, McDonald held various executive positions within Heritage Bank. From 2021 to 2024, he was the President and Chief Operating Officer. His career with the bank began in 2014, when he joined through the merger with Whidbey Island Bank and served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. With a wealth of experience in banking, he is well-equipped to lead the company into its next chapter.

In his first statement following the announcement, McDonald expressed his excitement for the role: "It is an honor to be appointed as the Company’s President and CEO. I look forward to our continued focus on providing quality customer service, maintaining a collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement, supporting our communities, and enhancing shareholder value."

The transition comes as Jeffrey J. Deuel, who had been at the helm since 2018, steps down from his position as CEO of the company and the bank. Deuel will continue to serve in an advisory capacity until March 31, 2027, ensuring that the new leadership has the support and guidance necessary during this transition. "I want to thank the Heritage team for their valuable partnership these past 15 years and I look forward to seeing their future successes as they continue to grow the Bank," Deuel stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the organization.

The Future of Heritage Financial

Bryan D. McDonald’s promotion signals a commitment to maintaining high standards of customer service while also focusing on strategic growth. His extensive background in various sectors of banking—including sales, credit, operations, commercial banking, and residential real estate—positions him as an ideal leader in a continuously evolving financial landscape.

Heritage Bank operates a network of 51 branches across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, and it has established itself as a trusted provider of financial services in these regions. The bank is dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction and community involvement, values that McDonald plans to uphold.

Looking Ahead

As McDonald steps into his new role, he is expected to implement strategies that not only build on the foundation established by his predecessor but also innovate within the banking sector. The ongoing support from Deuel alongside McDonald's leadership creates a harmonious blend of experience and fresh ideas, promising exciting prospects for Heritage Financial.

In conclusion, Heritage Financial Corporation stands at a pivotal moment in its trajectory with the appointment of Bryan D. McDonald. Stakeholders can likely anticipate a forward-thinking approach that balances customer-focused initiatives with robust financial health.

For further details about Heritage Financial Corporation and its services, please visit their website at www.hf-wa.com and for information on Heritage Bank, visit www.heritagebanknw.com.