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Lee Bank Announces Consumer Banking Promotions and New Team Member

Lee, MA – March 7, 2025 – Lee Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of SooJa Whalen to Assistant Vice President, Consumer Banking, and Michele Kotek to South County Area Manager, as well as the addition of Emily Davis to the team as Great Barrington Branch Manager. These promotions highlight Lee Bank’s dedication to promoting from within and providing opportunities for the local workforce, ensuring employees have a path for career advancement and long-term growth while also bringing in top talent to enhance its service to the Berkshire community.

SooJa Whalen has been promoted to AVP, Consumer Banking with over 25 years of banking experience, including eight years with Lee Bank, where she has previously held positions as Universal Banker, Community Banker, and South County Area Manager. In her new role, SooJa will focus on staff development, sales and service strategy, and operational efficiencies to further enhance customer experience and banking operations. In addition to her role at Lee Bank, SooJa serves as Treasurer of the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and is a board member of Berkshares. Originally from Lee and now residing in Great Barrington, SooJa enjoys hiking, tennis, cooking, and antiquing in her free time.

Michele Kotek has earned a promotion to South County Area Manager. With over five years in banking and more than 20 years in hospitality, Michele has built a strong foundation in creating welcoming environments and guiding customers toward their financial goals. In this new position, Michele will continue to foster strong customer relationships, support financial success for the community, and lead the South County team with her engaging and dynamic approach. She is an active board member of the Kiwanis Club of Lee and, in her free time, enjoys playing Liverpool Rummy with her family.

Lee Bank also welcomes Emily Davis as Great Barrington Branch Manager. With over 30 years of banking experience, including 22 years at Berkshire Bank and nine years at Pittsfield Cooperative Bank as AVP/Branch Manager, Emily brings a wealth of leadership and customer service expertise. She will focus on leading the Great Barrington branch, strengthening customer relationships, and developing local connections. Emily is also an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Sheffield, where she has served on the board for nine years and was president for two years. She has also contributed to the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Sheffield Finance Committee.

“We are thrilled to recognize the hard work and dedication of SooJa Whalen and Michele Kotek with these well-deserved promotions, and we are pleased to welcome Emily Davis to our team,” said Chuck Leach, President & CEO of Lee Bank. “At Lee Bank, we believe in fostering career growth from within and supporting local talent. SooJa, Michele, and Emily exemplify our commitment to exceptional service and community engagement.” Lee Bank continues to grow as a trusted financial partner in the Berkshires, reinforcing its focus on internal career development and providing local career opportunities. The bank emphasizes personalized service, local decision-making, and a deep investment in the community.

About Lee Bank

Established in 1852, Lee Bank is a leading community focused bank in Berkshire County. As one of the few remaining local and independent full-service banks in the area, our intention is to empower employees, customers, and our community by delivering local banking with service, sincerity, and simplicity. Lee Bank has branch offices in Lee, Stockbridge, Great Barrington, Pittsfield, and Lenox.

Lee Bank has been named “Best Employer in the Berkshires” by the Berkshire Eagle Reader’s Choice awards from 2016-2024 and has claimed the title of “Best Bank in the Berkshires” from 2021 - 2024.  For more information, visit www.leebank.com.