Cord Polen has decided to retire as the president and CEO of Alliance Bank. Mr. Polen’s decision was announced by incoming president and CEO, Wade “Pee Wee” Bartels, who said Cord leaves Alliance “in exceptional financial health and well-positioned for a bright future.”

Mr. Polen, a 37-year veteran of the banking industry, said this transition was part of a strategic plan developed some four years ago. “As with any carefully-planned strategy, timing, people and execution matter,” said Polen. “Now is the right time for me, the organization, and the exceptional team who will continue delivering the Alliance mission.”

“Banking is very satisfying in that you become a bridge between a customer’s aspirations and witnessing their realization,” said Polen. “Whether it’s a new home, saving for college or helping start a business, I want to express my gratitude to the many friends and customers who gave me the opportunity to be of service and trusted me and our bank with their financial needs.”

Mr. Bartels assumes his new role as president and CEO effective June 1. “Cord has been an exceptional leader and he’s passing the torch at a time when our brand and organization is poised for continued growth throughout southeast Missouri,” said Bartels. “Our strategy is built on financial stability and local banking professionals focused on building lasting relationships. Cord helped develop and implement that strategy, and I want our customers to know that, going forward, we will not stray from it.

I want to thank Cord for his service and work toward making Alliance into a market leader. I also want to assure our customers that our dedication to service, our local commitment and the pride we derive from serving customers will never change,” Bartels said.

Alliance Bank’s mission is to be the preferred community bank provider of financial services in the markets they serve. Headquartered in Cape Girardeau, MO with a strong local presence in Jackson, Sikeston, Oran, and New Madrid, all five locations are full service and are able to accommodate any number of consumer and business financial service needs. For lobby and drive-up hours, as well as a full inventory of banking services offered, please visit www.alliancebanking.com.

Wade Pee