June 5, 2025 – Country Bank a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, proudly announces the appointment of John Jahne as Chief Technology Officer, a key strategic hire to support the bank’s continued growth, operational excellence, and digital transformation initiatives.

John brings over 25 years of experience in technology leadership, vendor management, and enterprise operations. With a proven track record in managing high-performing technical teams and delivering cost-effective solutions, John’s approach aligns perfectly with Country Bank’s commitment to customer service, efficiency, and innovation.

“John is a dynamic and forward-thinking leader,” said Marco Bernasconi, Chief Operating and Innovation Officer. “His deep expertise in IT strategy, enterprise architecture, and core banking systems will enhance our capabilities as we continue to evolve to meet the needs of our customers and communities.”

Throughout his career, John has been a strategic leader on projects involving core banking conversions, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic sourcing, all while maintaining a sharp focus on cost savings and service improvements. He has also managed complex vendor relationships and negotiated high-impact contracts that improved operational performance and supported long-term institutional goals.

In addition to his corporate leadership role, John previously operated his own consulting and training firm, further demonstrating his entrepreneurial mindset and depth of technical knowledge in information security, server and network infrastructure, and application engineering.

“I’m excited to join Country Bank at such a pivotal moment,” said Jahne. “This is an organization deeply committed to its customers, communities and corporate values of integrity, service, teamwork, excellence and prosperity, and I look forward to contributing to its mission by delivering smart, scalable, and customer-focused technology solutions.”

Outside of his professional work, John is a dedicated community leader and educator. He serves on the Board of the Children’s Community School in Waterbury, CT, supporting its mission to educate the minds, bodies, and spirits of children from urban environments. He is also a long-standing member of the Simsbury Technology Task Force, helping the town enhance its technology strategy and infrastructure. Within the banking industry, John contributes as a faculty member for the Connecticut Bankers Association’s Connecticut School of Finance and Management, where he teaches Technology in Banking.

John’s appointment is another step forward in Country Bank’s strategic roadmap, reinforcing its position as a community-focused financial institution that is made to make a difference for its customers, communities and team members.

At Country Bank, the spirit of giving is at the heart of everything we do, and this holiday season, our team has embraced the true meaning of community support through our Season of Difference. We’ve worked tirelessly to make a meaningful impact, benefiting local organizations and families across the region.

One of the highlights of this year’s Season of Difference was the Difference Makers event held last Wednesday evening at the Wight Barn in Sturbridge, attended by team members company-wide, where Country Bank’s difference makers came together to build 250 stuffed critters. These lovable toys will be donated ahead of the holidays to local children’s organizations, including the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), foster care programs, local hospitals, and schools, spreading joy to those who need it most.

In addition to the stuffed critters, our teams contributed to the spirit of giving by purchasing $10,000 worth of toys, all of which will be delivered to DCFS offices. These toys will help brighten the holidays for children in foster care and other vulnerable families.

But the generosity didn’t stop there. Country Bank’s difference makers purchased ornaments to celebrate Giving Tuesday this year, with the organization matching proceeds totaling over $1,500 and all proceeds equally benefitting local organizations Second Chance Animal Shelter, Springfield Rescue Mission to end homelessness, Hearts for Heat providing Fuel Assistance, Project New Hope benefitting Veterans and Sun Shine Village providing Autism Spectrum Services to the community.

Country Bank also provided $52,000 in donations to local senior centers, ensuring our older neighbors felt the warmth of the season. Our commitment to fighting food insecurity was highlighted by a $44,000 donation to local food pantries, helping families in need enjoy a holiday meal. Earlier this holiday season, our volunteers also teamed up with the United Church of Ware to prepare and serve a Thanksgiving meal to community members. It’s through these collaborations that we’re able to make a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors.

Finally, as part of our dedication to honoring our veterans, Country Bank participated in Wreaths Across America, placing wreaths at three local cemeteries in West Brookfield, Holland, and Ludlow. This touching tribute helped ensure that the sacrifice of our servicemen and women is never forgotten. You will also see Country Bank difference makers out in the community this December at Uxbridge’s First Night, Light Up Palmer, White Christmas in West Brookfield and more. Country Bank’s goal is to make a heartfelt and lasting difference throughout the areas of Central and Western MA we serve daily.

At Country Bank, we are proud to serve the communities that support us. This Season of Difference reflects our ongoing commitment to making a lasting impact, not just during the holidays, but year-round. Together, we are truly made to make a difference.