Press Release
Machias Savings Bank Expands Leadership Team with Two Key Hires, Danielle Ahern and James Gehrke
MACHIAS AND PORTLAND, Maine (March 19, 2025) – Machias Savings Bank is pleased to welcome two experienced banking professionals, Danielle Ahern and James Gehrke, to its leadership team. Ahern joins as Senior Vice President, Director of Treasury Services, while Gehrke returns to Machias Savings Bank, stepping into the role of Senior Vice President, Regional Market Manager for Central Maine.
Danielle Ahern brings over 20 years of banking expertise to the Bank, specializing in treasury management, digital payment solutions, and fraud risk mitigation. As Director of Treasury Services, she will help businesses optimize cash utilization, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure secure, streamlined financial processes.
“Machias Savings Bank is successfully combining modern banking experiences with its longstanding commitment to exceptional customer service and community engagement,” said Ahern. “When businesses flourish, our communities do too. I’m thrilled to provide a distinctive and impactful experience for our customers.”
Ahern is an active community leader, serving as Chairperson of the Board for Jobs for Maine Graduates and on the board of Catholic Charities Maine. She has also supported organizations including the Bangor YMCA, University of Maine Alumni Association, Penobscot Theatre, and Junior Achievement of Maine. She is a graduate of Husson University and the University of Maine and resides in Bangor.
James Gehrke returns to Machias Savings Bank with nearly 20 years of experience in commercial banking. In his new role as Regional Market Manager for Central Maine, he leads a team of business bankers, fostering strong relationships with businesses across the region. Prior to rejoining Machias Savings Bank, Gehrke managed a $150 million commercial portfolio at a large Maine community bank.
“What’s unique about Maine is the number of businesses, often unknown to the public, that are the backbone of our communities,” said Gehrke. “I am humbled by the dedication of these business owners and proud to be in a position to help them achieve their goals with tailored financial solutions.”
A graduate of the Bangor Region Leadership Institute and Maine Leadership Institute, Gehrke is deeply involved in the community. He serves on the boards of the Brewer Economic Development Corporation and Partners for Peace, where he is also Treasurer and a member of both the Finance and Executive Committees. He is a graduate of Husson University and the University of Maine at Farmington and is a resident of Brewer.
About Machias Savings Bank
With nearly $2.6 billion in assets, over 300 employees, and 15 branches from Portland to Caribou, Machias Savings Bank seeks to move businesses forward through financial health, one person, one business and one community at a time. Founded in 1869 and a leader in customer experience and community, Machias works to expand its impact beyond products and services through community donations, its employee volunteer program, and by personalizing each customer relationship to help Maine businesses and individuals find their “YES!” More details about Machias Savings Bank can be found online at machiassavings.bank. Member FDIC.
Media Contacts
Jill Blanch
Vice President of Marketing Machias Savings Bank
jblanch@machiassavings.com
207.255.9328
Marnie Grumbach
Fluent IMC
marnie@fluentimc.com
207.749.9666
