Overview
Board member education plays an increasingly important role in the success of today’s top-performing mutual banks. Designed specifically for mutual bank directors, chairmen and CEOs, the Mutual Board Summit, hosted by Bank Director and Mutuals Matter, provides mutual bank leaders with the latest and most critical education and training needed to address the unique issues and challenges facing mutual institutions in today’s ever-competitive, highly regulated and rapidly evolving financial services landscape.
Whether you have served on a mutual board for years or are newly appointed, board members today have an extraordinary need for specialized information about the distinctive governance, strategic and regulatory considerations that define the mutual banking model. This Summit addresses the specific needs of mutual institutions — from member ownership structures and capital formation strategies to maintaining your community-focused mission while driving sustainable growth and profitability.
Through a curriculum developed by industry experts, this one-and-a-half-day event provides attendees with both foundational knowledge and the latest best practices across the critical areas that mutual bank directors must understand.
Pre-Summit Opportunities
In addition, the Summit includes exclusive Audit, Risk and Compensation Peer Exchanges that allow participants the opportunity to meet with their peers to address challenging issues and emerging opportunities in closed-door, off-the-record sessions.
For more information, please email [email protected] or call our events department at 877-397-7595.
Receive CLE/CPE Credits
CLE/CPE credits are available at the Mutual Board Summit. Attendees may receive a maximum of 12 credit hour at this event (total credits awarded are based on specific sessions attended).
Registration
The rate includes all conference activities, materials, meals and beverages provided during the conference hours. The price does not include travel or hotel accommodations.
Registration Rates:
Standard Individual Rate: $1,895
Standard Group Rate: $1,795 (For groups of 3 or more from the same financial institution)
Audit Peer Exchange: $995
Risk Peer Exchange: $995
Compensation Peer Exchange: $995
Guest Rate: $250
The guest rate of $250 covers all evening receptions. Guests are not allowed to attend sessions. A guest is a spouse, significant other or friend who is not in a financial services occupation. A co-worker (even a spouse co-worker) or an associate within the financial services industry is not considered a guest.
Board Resource Program Conference Rates
If your bank participates in Bank Director’s Board program, please contact 877-397-7595 to find out about special conference rates and/or event passes that may be available to you and your board. For questions or to find out more about Bank Director’s membership program, please email [email protected].
Discounted Hotel Rate
There is a discounted hotel room rate available for conference attendees at the Fairmont Copley Plaza until October 15, 2026, or until all rooms are reserved. To reserve a room, contact the hotel directly at 617-867-8566 and mention “Bank Director” to receive the available discounted rate. Rooms are limited, so please book early!
Payments & Cancellation
Conference registration fees include admittance to all conference activities and access to the conference materials. Payment will be accepted by check, American Express, Visa, MasterCard or Discover. If paying by check, please make payable to DirectorCorps, Inc. and include the attendee’s name(s) and/or a copy of the registration form and mail to:
Conferences
Bank Director
201 Summit View Drive, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027
Due to commitments and expenses, all cancellations after September 28, 2026, will be subject to a $300 processing fee. We regret that no refunds will be given after October 19, 2026; however, substitute participants are welcome. DirectorCorps, Inc. assumes no liability for any nonrefundable travel, hotel or related expenses incurred by registrants. Download and review our event’s code of conduct.
For more information regarding registration, refunds, concerns and/or program cancellation policies, please contact our events department at 877-397-7595 or [email protected].
Agenda
Audit Peer Exchanges
Small groups of experienced audit committee members, as well as senior bank executives — along with outside advisors — meet in closed-door, off-the-record peer groups for candid discussions about various issues and challenges facing officers and directors. View Agenda
Risk Peer Exchanges
Small groups of experienced risk committee members, as well as senior bank executives — along with outside advisors — meet in closed-door, off-the-record peer groups for candid discussions about various issues and challenges facing officers and directors. View Agenda
Compensation Peer Exchanges
The Bank Compensation Peer Exchange is for small groups of compensation committee members and human resource officers to meet in closed-door, off-the-record peer groups for candid discussions about various issues and challenges facing officers and directors. View Agenda
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mutual Board Summit Welcoming Reception & Registration
Sponsored by: Alkami Technology, Inc.
Join us to kick off the Summit and network with industry peers and thought leaders.
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
Sponsored by: Smith & Wilkinson
8:30 AM – 8:40 AM
Day One Welcome
Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
Gregg Tewksbury, President & CEO, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp
Bank Director and Mutuals Matter kick off Day One of the Mutual Board Summit by welcoming attendees to Boston.
8:40 AM – 9:20 AM
A Message from Washington
Michelle Bowman, Vice Chair for Supervision, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Moderated by: Gregg Tewksbury, President & CEO, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp
Gain critical intelligence on the legislative and regulatory shifts reshaping our industry. This session breaks down the latest directives from Capitol Hill and federal agencies. Discover how Washington’s agenda impacts your board’s governance, compliance strategy and the preservation of the mutual charter.
9:20 AM – 10:00 AM
The 5 Biggest Challenges Facing Bank Boards Today
Rich Leone, Chair of the Board, President & CEO, COCC
Timothy O’Brien, Managing Parter, Morningstar, Inc.
Lawrence Spaccasi, Partner, Luse Gorman, PC
Moderated by: Bill Herrell, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
Whether it’s the drive for deposits and interest rate inflection, competition from neo-banks and fintech companies in payments and lending, or devising a strategy to scale, the challenges facing bank CEOs and their boards, specifically for mutuals, have rarely been more complex. This session frames the issues facing banks today and provides context for the general session topics on this agenda.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Refreshment Break
Sponsored by: Adrenaline
10:15 AM – 10:55 AM
The State of Our Industry: Finding Your Place In A Consolidating Industry
Nathan Stovall, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
Join us as we dissect the evolving banking landscape. We dive into emerging trends, economic forecasts and strategic approaches to navigate uncertainty and capitalize on opportunities.
10:55 AM – 11:35 AM
Securing Your Legacy
Grant Butler, Partner, Reed Smith, LLP
Derek Szot, Managing Director, Piper Sandler Companies
Moderated by: Laura Alix, Director of Research, Bank Director
Shift your board’s mindset from maintaining the status quo to pursuing strategic dominance. Explore actionable strategies to leverage the mutual advantage for growth, innovation and deeper member value. During this session, participants hear how to secure your institution’s independence and legacy by playing offense in a consolidating, competitive marketplace.
11:35 AM – 12:35 PM
Networking Lunch
Hosted by: Mutuals Matter
12:35 PM – 1:15 PM
Strategic Capital Deployment: Maximizing the Mutual Advantage
Matt Reader Forgotson, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
Unlock the full potential of your balance sheet. With retained earnings as your primary source of capital, deployment decisions are critical. Learn frameworks to balance regulatory safety with bold investments in technology and talent. Master the art of using capital to drive member value and ensure generational relevance.
1:15 PM – 1:50 PM
Why Do Mutuals Matter?
Dave Hanrahan, President & CEO, Century Savings Bank
Jeff Marsico, Principal, Wolf & Company, P.C.
Your ownership structure is a powerful competitive advantage. Learn to craft a compelling narrative that distinguishes you from stock-owned rivals. Discover how to translate the “mutual difference” into market share, customer loyalty and a brand identity that resonates with purpose-driven consumers.
1:50 PM – 2:05 PM
Refreshment Break
Sponsored by: Mass Bankers Association
2:05 PM – 3:15 PM
Peer Collaboration
This session allows small groups to come together to discuss ideas and share experiences. A suggested list of topics will be provided to each table.
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Refreshment Break
Sponsored by: New Hampshire Bankers Association
3:30 PM – 4:10 PM
Seamless Transition: The Critical Role of Succession Planning
Scott Petty, Managing Partner, Chartwell Partners
Steve Schick, Partner, Plante Moran
Moderated by: Naomi Snyder, Editor-in-Chief, Bank Director
A strong succession plan is vital for the long-term success of any bank. This session discusses the importance of board involvement in succession planning and the board’s role in selecting and mentoring future leaders. We explore the impact of regulatory changes and emerging trends on succession planning.
4:10 PM – 4:50 PM
Building a Strong Bank: What CEOs Want – and Expect – From Their Boards
David Finnerty, President & CEO, Claremont Savings Bank
James McQuade, President & CEO, Dollar Mutual Bancorp
Julieann Thurlow, President & CEO, Reading Cooperative Bank
Moderated by: Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
Bank Director sits down with banking pioneers to discuss their innovative decision strategies and how they have built the bank they lead today.
4:50 PM – 5:50 PM
Networking Peer & Guest Reception
Sponsored by: COCC
As we conclude the first day of the Summit, join your peers for a well-deserved time of networking.
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Breakfast
Sponsored by: Kaplan Partners
8:30 AM – 8:35 AM
Day Two Welcome
Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
Gregg Tewksbury, President & CEO, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp
We welcome attendees to Day Two of the Mutual Board Summit.
8:35 AM – 9:05 AM
A CEO’s Playbook: Realizing the Mutual Growth Potential
Charley Cummings, CEO, Walden Mutual Bank
Go behind the scenes of the first de novo mutual in a generation. Charley Cummings, CEO of Walden Mutual Bank, shares specific strategies – from culture shifts to strategic expansion – that fueled the institution’s rise. Gain a practical roadmap for aligning board and management to ignite sustainable growth while honoring your cooperative mission.
9:05 AM – 9:40 AM
The Importance of the Audit Committee (Even If You’re Not On It)
Ryan Peebles, Senior Manager, Crowe Advisory LLC
Tim Ryan, Director, Liberty Bank
The audit committee is charged with retaining and supervising the bank’s external auditing firm and overseeing both external and internal auditing. This session reviews the audit committee’s duties and discusses best practices that keep the committee running effectively.
9:40 AM – 10:15 AM
Board & Executive: Modern Mutual Compensation
Mike Blanchard, CEO, Blanchard Consulting Group
Jeff Fairchild, SVP, Lead Consultant, Blanchard Consulting Group
Competing for talent without having real stock (i.e., options and restricted) requires strategic creativity. Explore effective compensation frameworks specific to mutuals, including phantom equity and performance-based incentives. Learn to design packages that attract top-tier leadership, align rewards with long-term member value and withstand regulatory scrutiny.
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM
Refreshment Break
10:30 AM – 11:10 AM
The Collaborative Advantage: Unlocking Shared Success
Clayton Adams, President & CEO, Mascoma Bank
Tim Keith, CEO, OptimaFI
Moderated by: Courtney Theis, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
Overcome scale challenges without sacrificing independence. Explore high-impact collaboration models, from shared technology platforms to operational alliances. Discover how partnering with peer institutions drives efficiency and innovation, enabling your mutual to compete with industry giants while preserving your distinct community identity.
11:10 AM – 11:50 AM
Putting It All Together: What’s Now & What’s Next
David Barksdale, President & CEO, Piedmont Federal Bank
Joseph Coneeny, Chair of the Board of Trustees, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp
Anne Tangen, President & CEO, Bank Five
Moderated by: Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
We conclude the Summit with a panel of your peers, discussing the opportunities and challenges they face with their institutions. We dive into the critical role of strategic planning in driving organizational success, discuss why boards should play a strong role in the strategic planning process and show how they can shape a clear, actionable vision that aligns with the organization’s mission and objectives.
11:50 AM – 11:55 AM
Closing Remarks
Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
Gregg Tewksbury, President & CEO, New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp
Sunday | November 8
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
9:30 AM – 9:40 AM
Welcome
Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director
9:40 AM – 10:40 AM
Audit Peer Exchange Session
The Audit Peer Exchange focuses on audit committee functions, IT risks, regulation, committee effectiveness and communication. To open the Audit Peer Exchange, we explore issues such as:
- What is the relationship between internal audit and the audit committee?
- What is the appropriate skill set for an audit committee member?
- How do you identify the subject matter that should be at the top of your committee agenda?
10:40 AM – 11:00 AM
Refreshment Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Audit Peer Exchange Session
Following a short refreshment break, we reconvene in the peer exchange session, building on earlier conversations by addressing topics such as:
- What are the recommended best practices for audit committees?
- How long should a director serve on the audit committee?
- What are some best practices regarding separating the audit committee and risk committee lines or areas of responsibility?
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Networking Lunch
We set aside an hour for all peer exchange participants to eat, check emails and return phone calls before resuming the afternoon sessions.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Audit Peer Exchange Session
In this session, we expand our conversations to include questions like this for our Audit Peer Exchange:
- What are the top three regulatory compliance challenges facing your bank?
- How does your bank evaluate the effectiveness of your board?
- Where is the overlap between your bank’s risk and audit committees?
2:30 PM – 2:50 PM
Refreshment Break
2:50 PM – 4:00 PM
Audit Peer Exchange Session
Additional Audit Peer Exchange questions include:
- What do you expect management to communicate to you?
- Where does loan review sit in the organization, and what are its reporting lines?
- What staffing and resources do you have devoted to regulatory compliance?
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mutual Board Summit Welcoming Reception & Registration
Sponsored by: Alkami Technology, Inc.
Join us to kick off the Summit and network with industry peers and thought leaders.
Sunday | November 8
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
9:30 AM – 9:40 AM
Welcome
Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director
9:40 AM – 10:40 AM
Risk Peer Exchange Session
The Risk Peer Exchange focuses on risk governance, regulation, committee effectiveness, compliance and culture. To open the Risk Peer Exchange, we explore issues such as:
- What are the top three risks your bank is most concerned about?
- Has your board set up a separate risk committee, and why?
- Who is responsible for risk mitigation within your bank?
10:40 AM – 11:00 AM
Refreshment Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Risk Peer Exchange Session
Following a short refreshment break, we reconvene in the peer exchange session, building on earlier conversations by addressing topics such as:
- How frequently does your board review cyber risk and cybersecurity? How are you staying on top of this issue and its impact on your bank?
- What has the board done to create a culture of risk awareness throughout the organization?
- What are some best practices regarding separating the audit committee and risk committee lines or areas of responsibility?
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Networking Lunch
We set aside an hour for all peer exchange participants to eat, check emails and return phone calls before resuming the afternoon sessions.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Risk Peer Exchange Session
In this session, we expand our conversations to include questions like this for our Risk Peer Exchange:
- Has your bank hired a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and why/why not?
- Has your bank suffered a cyber-intrusion? How did you handle it?
- How does your bank manage enterprise risk management?
2:30 PM – 2:50 PM
Refreshment Break
2:50 PM – 4:00 PM
Risk Peer Exchange Session
Additional Risk Peer Exchange questions include:
- How can risk be measured so that it is not a barrier to growth?
- Do those who serve on the risk committee also serve on other committees?
- How does your bank mitigate vendor risk?
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mutual Board Summit Welcoming Reception & Registration
Sponsored by: Alkami Technology, Inc.
Join us to kick off the Summit and network with industry peers and thought leaders.
Sunday | November 8
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
9:30 AM – 9:40 AM
Welcome
Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director
9:40 AM – 10:40 AM
Compensation Peer Exchange Session
The Compensation Peer Exchange focuses on all topics related to compensation for senior leadership, management, the CEO and the board, as well as the regulatory environment, peer groups, talent acquisition and succession planning. To open the Compensation Peer Exchange, we explore issues such as:
- Do you worry about losing your CEO/senior management to a competitor, within or outside of the industry, if your compensation is not competitive? How do you manage this?
- Let’s talk about short-term incentive plans and the types of compensation your institution uses.
- What is the role of your compensation committee?
10:40 AM – 11:00 AM
Refreshment Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Compensation Peer Exchange Session
Following a short refreshment break, we reconvene in the peer exchange session, building on earlier conversations by addressing topics such as:
- How are directors at your institution compensated?
- How is the peer group selected for your bank?
- What metrics do you look at, and how have these changed in recent years?
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Networking Lunch
We set aside an hour for all peer exchange participants to eat, check emails and return phone calls before resuming the afternoon sessions.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Compensation Peer Exchange Session
In this session, we expand our conversations to include questions like this for our Compensation Peer Exchange:
- Have regulators commented on your compensation programs? If so, what has been their focus?
- Does your board have a mandatory retirement age or tenure-based limits?
- How is your board addressing talent management and succession planning matters?
2:30 PM – 2:50 PM
Refreshment Break
2:50 PM – 4:00 PM
Compensation Peer Exchange Session
Additional Compensation Peer Exchange questions include:
- How formal is the succession plan for the CEO, and what are the pitfalls you have encountered in the past?
- What percentage of your senior management team will retire in the next five years? How are you planning for this?
- What does your bank do to retain talent?
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mutual Board Summit Welcoming Reception & Registration
Sponsored by: Alkami Technology, Inc.
Join us to kick off the Summit and network with industry peers and thought leaders.
Sponsors
About the Venue
A luxury landmark hotel in Back Bay, Fairmont Copley Plaza has symbolized Boston’s rich history and elegance since its gala opening in 1912. For over a century, the “Grande Dame of Boston” has been a beacon in the city’s social and political life, where the corridors echo with the footsteps of royalty, esteemed foreign dignitaries and celebrities.
Fairmont Copley Plaza
138 St. James Avenue
Boston MA 02116
617-267-5300
Discounted Hotel Rate
There is a discounted hotel room rate available for conference attendees at the Fairmont Copley Plaza until October 15, 2026, or until all rooms are reserved. To reserve a room, contact the hotel directly at 617-867-8566 and mention “Bank Director” to receive the available discounted rate. Rooms are limited, so please book early!
For more information, please email [email protected] or call our events department at 877-397-7595.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend the Mutual Board Summit?
Who should attend the Mutual Board Summit?
The Mutual Board Summit was created for CEOs, chairs of the board and directors of mutual banks. Attendees include both inside and outside mutual bank directors.
Why should I attend the Mutual Board Summit?
Why should I attend the Mutual Board Summit?
Specifically designed for Mutual Institutions, the Mutual Board Summit brings together unparalleled insight from leading experts in audit, compensation, risk management, corporate governance, regulation, succession planning and strategic planning to provide members of the board with both the foundational knowledge and the latest information on best practices in all of the critical areas facing mutual banks today.
The Summit provides a unique opportunity for bank leaders to connect with their peers in exclusive, closed-door settings. Through Audit, Risk and Compensation Peer Exchanges, participants can candidly discuss challenges and opportunities facing the banking industry today.
How much does this conference cost, and what does the fee cover?
How much does this conference cost, and what does the fee cover?
The standard individual registration rate is $1,895. However, attendees should contact our conference department at 877-397-7595 or [email protected] for special early and group rates. This fee includes all conference activities and materials at the event site. It does not include travel or hotel accommodations.
What if I need to cancel my reservation at the conference?
What if I need to cancel my reservation at the conference?
Due to commitments and expenses, all cancellations after September 28, 2026, will be subject to a $300 processing fee. We regret that no refunds will be given after October 19, 2026; however, substitute participants are welcome. DirectorCorps, Inc. assumes no liability for any nonrefundable travel, hotel or related expenses incurred by registrants.
Can I bring a guest?
Can I bring a guest?
Yes, we do have a guest program. The guest rate of $250 covers all evening receptions. Guests are not allowed to attend sessions. A guest is a spouse, significant other or friend who is not in a financial services occupation. A co-worker (even a spouse co-worker) or an associate within the financial services industry is not considered a guest.
Can I receive a certificate of attendance?
Can I receive a certificate of attendance?
Concluding the event, participants of this year’s Summit can request an attendance certificate from the registration desk demonstrating their continued focus on board education.
Is CPE credit available for this conference?
Is CPE credit available for this conference?
Yes, CPE credit is available for this conference.
DirectorCorps, Inc., the parent company of Bank Director, is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit.
Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.learningmarket.org. Visit their information page for CPE learning objectives, program levels, prerequisites, recommended credits and complaint resolutions.
All of Bank Director’s education programs are classified as “Basic” program level with no pre-requisites or advance preparation required for participation in these events. All events fall under “Group-Live” delivery method. At the event, attendees will be required to
sign in and out of sessions in order for attendees to receive the appropriate number of credits and a certificate of completion following the event.
For questions about the program and about the number of credits awarded for this event, please contact Bank Director’s conference department at [email protected] or 877-397-7595.
Where is the event being held?
Where is the event being held?
Fairmont Copley Plaza
138 St. James Avenue
Boston MA 02116
617-267-5300