The Last Word: Coming Home To Community Banking

By Lisa Oliver

As I settle into my new role here at The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod, each day brings more excitement about what’s ahead.

I knew returning to my community banking roots was going to be fun and exciting, but what I’ve been fortunate enough to join at The Coop is something truly special. This bank and its amazing team of bankers are on a mission.

Every day, they do their best to deliver the kind of experience that defines true community banking. From helping someone choose the right checking account or sign up for mobile banking, to advising a potential new homeowner about their financing options or helping a business owner finance new equipment, the team here at The Coop gets it. They understand the Cape and Cape Codders. They appreciate our unique business cycle. They’re passionate about supporting the organizations and causes that Cape Codders care about. And they love what they do.

I’m no stranger to the Cape, having vacationed here for many years with my family. My husband grew up in Sharon and went to school at Providence College, so we know this area well. I’m also no stranger to the challenges families face when trying to balance running a household with saving for a child’s education and investing in their own retirement. The team at The Coop has the expertise and solutions to help. I’ve spent more than 20 years helping people start and grow their businesses – large and small − and providing cash management solutions to help those business owners focus on delivering their goods and services, rather than worrying about their banking. I know how a bank can help and I’m enthusiastic about putting this experience to work here on the Cape.

The heritage of The Coop is legendary, and I intend to honor its legacy while helping the team expand our reach to help more Cape Codders. Businesses are vital to the local economy. Helping them grow and expand will benefit everyone. Jobs are created and sustained. These businesses, just like The Coop, invest back into the local communities. The more people who bank with us, the more we can provide funding for homes and businesses, and the more support we can provide to the communities we serve. Everyone wins.

In the short time I’ve been here, I can truly say, “I’m home.” Community banking is where I started. I gained some great experience at larger banks along the way. And now I’m back to community banking. I couldn’t be happier or more excited to get to work and help The Coop continue to make a difference … a positive difference.

Lisa Oliver is president and CEO of The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod.