County National Bank announced a new president and CEO on Sept. 16.

Joseph Williams will serve as the new leader of CNB Community Bancorp, which has several locations in south central Michigan and is headquartered in Hillsdale. Williams will begin his duties in early October.

Williams has 40 years of banking experience and currently serves on the CNB board of directors. He said his goals include focusing on individual client experience, increasing shareholder engagement, and investing in the professional growth of current CNB associates.

“When we do all of these things, everyone wins: communities, clients, associates, and shareholders,” he said. “We want everyone to see our values come to life, no matter what office or what market you are in.”

Williams said he looks forward to bringing his experience in community service and leadership experience to the banking company.

“I am excited to join CNB full time. They understand community banking and I am looking forward to serving alongside a great executive team,” he said in a statement. “Our focus will be community impact, employee development, client experience, and shareholder return. I am honored and humbled to be part of a great team and build upon the tremendous foundation that has been developed over the last 88 years.”

The chairman of the company’s and bank’s board, Craig Connor, said he and the board of directors are excited to welcome Williams to his new leadership role. 

“Our entire board of directors is so very pleased with the selection of Joe as our new president and CEO. He is a talented, experienced and knowledgeable community banker with a track record of strong leadership, team building, and service to the community,” Connor said in a statement. “The future for all our stakeholders: customers, employees, communities and shareholders just became a little brighter.”

Williams said prioritizing customer relationships will be at the forefront of his agenda.

“My favorite quote by Maya Angelou that I hope to live out at CNB is, ‘People won’t remember what you said, people won’t remember what you did, but people will always, always remember how you made them feel,’” he said.