Florence Bank announced that vice president / commercial team leader Ryan Hess of East Longmeadow has been promoted to lead the bank’s commercial lending efforts as senior vice president / chief commercial banking officer. Hess replaces senior vice president /senior commercial lender Mike Lynch, who will retire in June 2026 after 21 years at Florence Bank.

“Ryan has done an outstanding job as a leader as part of our Commercial Team and is a trusted associate and advisor to clients in Western Massachusetts. His promotion is well deserved, and I look forward to his continuing that success,” said Matt Garrity, President and CEO.

Hess joined Florence Bank in 2023 and has 14 years of banking experience as well as a strong affinity for commercial lending and solutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts and believes his skill in collaboration and leadership will continue to inform his work for Florence Bank as he manages the commercial team.

“We have a talented group of business banking professionals here at Florence Bank. My experiences have helped prepare me for this role to lead that team,” he said.

Active in the community, Hess sits on the board for United Way of Franklin & Hampshire County and serves as a committee member for Ronald McDonald House and Make-A-Wish of Massachusetts.

After 42 years in banking, Lynch looks forward to playing golf, traveling, and spending time with his family and believes Hess is well-suited for his new role. “I wish Ryan the best and look forward to the success of the Bank under his leadership,” he said.

Garrity lauded Lynch’s accomplishments during his tenure as senior commercial lender. “Mike has always represented Florence Bank with distinction, integrity, and professionalism. We’ll miss his numerous contributions and wish him well as he embarks on his next journey.”