Rich Ohnmacht Appointed as New CEO of Woodsboro Bank, Promising Continued Growth
Rich Ohnmacht Takes the Helm at Woodsboro Bank
In a significant organizational move, Woodsboro Bank's Board of Directors has announced the promotion of Rich Ohnmacht to the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2025. This decision comes as a vital step toward nurturing the growth and positive influence of the bank within the Frederick community. Ohnmacht, who has served as the bank’s President for the past year, takes over from Steve Heine, who will remain with the organization in a Senior Advisor capacity, continuing his active involvement in the bank's strategic initiatives.
A Commitment to Community and Growth
The elevation of Ohnmacht to CEO is viewed as a strategic move to maintain the momentum of Woodsboro Bank's three-year growth plan. Ohnmacht is tasked with not only managing the day-to-day operations but also steering the bank's long-term vision, which centers on providing tailored banking solutions that cater to both individuals and local businesses. According to Gordon Cooley, Chair of the Board, Ohnmacht is an informed and empathetic leader, well-equipped to traverse the changing landscape of the banking sector while nurturing community ties.
Ohnmacht's appointment reflects his transformative contributions to Woodsboro Bank since he joined the team six years ago. His leadership has been instrumental in doubling the bank's loan portfolio and achieving consistent annual growth while enhancing user experience through advances in digital banking and treasury management.
Engaging the Local Community
One aspect that distinguishes Ohnmacht’s approach is his commitment to fostering deep connections with the Frederick business community. By launching initiatives such as market roundtable discussions that unite commercial bankers and branch managers, Ohnmacht has significantly improved client engagement, an essential element of Woodsboro Bank's strategy.
His dedication extends beyond the bank; Ohnmacht actively participates in various community efforts. He holds important positions on the boards of Frederick Health Hospital and the Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County and serves as the Maryland State Delegate for the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA).
Embracing Change with a Community-First Mindset
In his statement regarding the transition, Ohnmacht expressed his gratitude for the strong foundation laid by his predecessor, Heine, and emphasized the importance of evolving continuously in a fast-paced world. He believes that embracing innovation while prioritizing what truly matters—community—is vital for Woodsboro Bank’s future success. His mission emphasizes sustaining the bank's community-first ethos while leveraging the resources typically found in larger banks, paired with the personalized service that has become a hallmark of Woodsboro Bank.
Continuity and Support
Steve Heine, who has served as CEO since 2017, will continue to play a significant role during the leadership transition. Heine will work alongside Ohnmacht as a Senior Advisor, ensuring continuity and stability in strategic discussions and community outreach endeavors. His exit from the CEO role does not diminish his commitment; rather, he remains dedicated to engaging with clients and supporting the bank’s mission through his presence on the board and leadership in the region.
As Woodsboro Bank moves into this new chapter, the commitment to its values remains strong, focusing on fostering an environment where client relationships thrive. With a newly aligned executive team and a visionary leader at the helm, the future looks promising for Woodsboro Bank. The bank's rich history of serving the Frederick community since its establishment in 1899 positions it perfectly to continue making a positive impact, imbued with the spirit of collaboration and service.
Conclusion
The leadership change at Woodsboro Bank signifies not just a shift in personnel but a reinforcement of its core mission—prioritizing community, engagement, and tailored financial solutions. As Rich Ohnmacht steps into his role as CEO, he brings a vision that promises to maintain and enhance the bank's legacy, ensuring that it remains not just a financial institution but a steadfast partner for the residents of Frederick County as they navigate the changing landscape of finance and community banking.