BAYCOAST - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Executive Vice President / Chief Lending Officer
Carl's journey at BayCoast Bank started in November 2004, following nearly three decades of dedicated service in Compass Bank's Lending Division. During his tenure there, he skillfully managed the Real Estate Mortgage Department, steering the development of residential and commercial real estate loan businesses. As the Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer at BayCoast Bank, Carl assumes comprehensive oversight of the Lending Division, encompassing Consumer, Residential, and Commercial Lending.
Carl has a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth. His commitment to professional growth is evidenced by his graduation from the Massachusetts Bankers Supervisory School and the National Association of Savings Banks Graduate School.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Carl is a passionate advocate for his community and is deeply involved in numerous non-profit organizations. His current affiliations include serving as the President of the Board of Directors of Child & Family Services headquartered in New Bedford, MA (having previously served in that same capacity), Board and Executive Committee Member of the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, Board and Executive Committee Member at South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation, Trustee of the Greater New Bedford Industrial Foundation, Finance Committee Member of the Southcoast Health System, Investment Committee Member of the Southcoast Health System, Member of the Finance Council for the Diocese of Fall River, Chairperson of the Finance Council at St. Anthony/St. Rita Parishes in Mattapoisett/Marion, and is a Member of the Development Committee of the Foundation To Advance Catholic Education (FACE) for the Diocese of Fall River. His previous community involvement also includes Trustee Board Member of the Southcoast Health System and Southcoast Hospitals Group, Board Member of the Southcoast Chamber of Commerce (now known as the One Southcoast Chamber of Commerce), Board Member of the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association, Trustee Board Member at the New Bedford Ocean Explorium,, Trustee Board Member at the Nativity Prep School of New Bedford, Board Member at the Waterfront Historic Area League (WHALE), Board Member at Coastline Elderly Services, Development Committee Member for the Diocesan Health Facilities Office, Volunteer for Junior Achievement, and Volunteer for the United Way of Greater New Bedford. Carl was also named as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International and received the One Southcoast Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership award.
Carl calls Mattapoisett, MA, his home, where he resides with his wife, Natalie.
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Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Chris Schofield graduated from Babson College, earning his degree in 1994. His career in the consumer finance industry began immediately after graduation when he joined Forward Financial Company in Northboro, Massachusetts. At Forward, he honed his expertise in originating and closing loans for Manufactured Homes, Boats, and Recreational Vehicles throughout New England. Notably, he also played a pivotal role in developing consumer loan portfolios for various national client lenders.
In 2003, Chris took a significant leap by founding Priority Funding, LLC. He embarked on his journey by originating loans in central Massachusetts with a single client lender. Over the years, he has masterfully expanded the business into its current form. A testament to his vision and strategic acumen, Chris orchestrated Priority's acquisition of Forward National Company's assets in 2010 and the purchase of Teamwork Mortgage of Mesa, AZ, in 2021. Today, Priority Funding lends in 20 states across the United States and has become a solid player in the Manufactured Housing Finance Industry on the national stage.
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Job Titles:
- Chief Information Officer
- Senior Vice President
- a Pivotal
With over two decades of dedicated service to BayCoast Bank, Dan DeCosta assumes a pivotal role in the organization. He diligently oversees the day-to-day operations of the E-Commerce, Information Technology, and Information Systems departments. Moreover, Dan takes on the responsibilities of a Solutions Architect, designing new business processes using automation tools and internal development to create efficiencies across the Bank and its affiliated entities, including BayCoast Insurance, BayCoast Mortgage, Priority Funding, and Plimoth Investment Advisors.
Job Titles:
- President & CEO, Retail Lending Manager
Daniel Briand brings an impressive 43 years of experience in Real Estate and Mortgage Banking to his role, having held senior management positions at various regional banks before joining BayCoast Bank in 2009. Currently, he serves as the President and CEO of BayCoast Mortgage, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BayCoast Bank, specializing in mortgage lending operations spanning the East Coast. In addition to this pivotal role, Dan also assumes responsibility for overseeing BayCoast Bank's Consumer Lending activities and spearheading the development of innovative products while expanding the Bank's lending footprint across its market area.
Dan calls Bourne, MA, his home and boasts a bachelor's degree from the University of Rhode Island. His commitment to the industry is evident through his past service on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association (MMBA) and his ongoing involvement with the MMBA's Education Committee. Beyond the professional sphere, Dan actively contributes to his community, engaging with the Fall River/New Bedford Housing Partnership, volunteering at the Fall River Homeless Shelter, and dedicating his time to the Mattapoisett Road Race Scholarship Committee.
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Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Chief Risk Officer
- Senior Vice President
Vierra started his journey with BayCoast Bank in September 2015, stepping into the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer. In this capacity, he shoulders the critical responsibilities of risk management, project management, cannabis banking operations, compliance/BSA, audit, information security, and physical security, extending his oversight to encompass all business units and subsidiaries under the bank's umbrella. As a key member of the senior management team, Vierra maintains a close partnership with the senior management team, the Audit Committee, and the Board of Directors, playing an integral role in shaping risk management and compliance strategies. Additionally, Gary chairs the bank's Risk Management Committee.
With a robust 42-year banking career, Vierra possesses a wealth of experience spanning finance, operations, information technology, and risk management. He has held executive-level positions at three distinguished financial institutions, including BankFive in Fall River, the former Slades Bank (now part of Rockland Trust), and the former First Federal Savings Bank of America (now part of Webster Bank). Vierra's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Accounting, and a master's in business administration, both earned from Bryant University.
Beyond his professional achievements, Vierra enjoys a fulfilling personal life as a married individual with three children. He calls Narragansett, Rhode Island, his home, where he actively engages in church and civic activities. Notably, he served as a Founding Director and Treasurer for the Argosy Collegiate Charter School in Fall River, Massachusetts, demonstrating his dedication to educational initiatives. Moreover, Vierra has dedicated 16 years of his life to various leadership roles within the Boy Scouts of America, further exemplifying his commitment to community service and youth development.
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Job Titles:
- Chief Operating Officer
- Executive Vice President
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President, Community Engagement
John McMahon has a rich history of over two decades within the banking sector, characterized by a profound mastery of marketing, sales, strategic planning, budgeting, corporate giving, and compliance. At BayCoast Bank, he plays a dynamic role as he oversees several customer-centric departments, including Corporate Giving, Marketing, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) initiatives, Financial Literacy, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), as well as the Customer Solutions Center and Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) departments.
John's career is a testament to his outstanding leadership, adept team-building skills, effective communication, and sound decision-making capabilities. A central focus of his work revolves around nurturing and preserving meaningful community relationships. Under the stewardship of the Community Engagement Department, John collaborates with numerous nonprofits and community organizations to develop and execute projects that nurture engagement and inclusion in the neighborhoods served by the Bank.
A proud alumnus of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, John holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and business management. His commitment to community welfare extends to his role as a Board Member of the Bristol Community College Foundation, where he actively contributes his insights. John also dedicates his time to the Fall River United Way Allocation Committee, further reinforcing his commitment to community service.
John currently resides in Swansea, Massachusetts, sharing his life with his wife and son. Besides his professional and community responsibilities, he enjoys coaching youth sports and savoring outdoor adventures with his beloved family.
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Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Chief Finance Officer
- Senior Vice President
Marie Pellegrino began her finance career with a strong foundation in healthcare administration and accounting. In 2000, she transitioned to the community banking industry, commencing her journey at People's Credit Union in Middletown, RI. Her remarkable journey continued as she assumed the role of Vice President and Controller at Newport Federal Savings Bank. In 2013, she embraced a new challenge by joining BayCoast Bank in Swansea, Massachusetts.
Marie is a shining example of financial prowess and effective management, earning praise from peers and direct reports, who often describe her as "one of the smartest and calmest individuals in the room."
Her educational background reflects her commitment to excellence, as she graduated from the Massachusetts School of Financial Studies and ascended to the role of Chief Financial Officer at BayCoast in 2019. Marie's collegiate journey led her to Providence College on a full scholarship, where she showcased her athletic prowess as a Division 1 College Softball pitcher while earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting.
Marie planted her roots in South Easton, MA, alongside her husband. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted nature and animal enthusiast. Her generous spirit extends to volunteering her time at several local community organizations, reflecting her dedication to making a positive impact.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Chief Community Banking Officer
- Senior Vice President Chief Community Banking Officer
With an impressive 35-year career in the banking industry, Matthew Payette brings invaluable expertise and leadership to the BayCoast Bank team. Before joining BayCoast Bank, Matthew held a prominent role with Santander in New Bedford.
Currently serving as the Chief Community Banking Officer at BayCoast, Matthew assumes a pivotal position overseeing the community banking division. This division encompasses a vast network of 25 branches across southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In his role, Matthew not only shapes the strategic direction and operational excellence of these branches but also ensures they adeptly cater to the diverse financial needs of customers. His role also entails executing strategies that align seamlessly with BayCoast Bank's overarching mission and vision.
Matthew's academic journey is anchored by a bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. His unwavering commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his status as a Notary Public in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and his possession of a Series 7 License - FINRA, underlining his dedication to maintaining the highest professional standards.
Beyond his illustrious career, Matthew is a compassionate and active community member. His volunteer work with My Brother's Keeper in Dartmouth exemplifies his commitment to extending a helping hand to those in need. Additionally, Matthew has served as the former chairperson of the annual John C. O'Brien Scholarship Golf Tournament, which benefits deserving students at Bishop Stang High School. He further enriches his community by fulfilling the role of a Eucharistic Minister at St. Julie Billiart Church in Dartmouth, underscoring his unwavering dedication to community service and support.
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Job Titles:
- Vice President, BayCoast Financial Services / Financial Advisor
- Vice President, BayCoast Financial Services, Financial Advisor, Infinex Investments Inc
Mike is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, and spent three years on active duty as a United States Army officer. He holds Series 7, 24, 63 and 65 registrations. Mike makes his home in Pocasset, Massachusetts with his wife and their two children.
Job Titles:
- Vice President, BayCoast Financial Services / Financial Advisor
- Vice President, BayCoast Financial Services, Financial Advisor, Infinex Investments Inc
Mr. Rego attended the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth and completed an extensive investment training program at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. He is a Registered General Securities Representative, Investment Advisor Representative, (Series 7, Series 66, and Series 31) and holds both Life & Health insurance licenses in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Florida.
Nate Rego lives in Dartmouth, Massachusetts with his wife and son. He is a regular volunteer and committee member at Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust, a non-profit land trust that is responsible for the protection & preservation of over 5000 acres in the town of Dartmouth. He also volunteers regularly with the DYAA, coaching both youth baseball & basketball. In addition, he is a participant in the "Credit for Life" interactive financial literacy program for local area high school students, stressing the importance of saving early and often.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President
Nicholas M. Christ stands at the helm of BayCoast Bank as its esteemed President and CEO, overseeing the community bank dedicated to serving Southcoast Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With a robust network of 25 branch locations spanning the region, BayCoast Bank is a comprehensive financial institution offering various services to consumers and businesses, including investment management, trust services, and insurance and brokerage services.
Nick brings an impressive 45 years of financial services industry experience to his leadership role. His journey at BayCoast encompasses various executive-level positions, ultimately culminating in his current role as President and CEO. Before his tenure at BayCoast, he contributed his expertise to Dedham Institution for Savings and the Boston, Massachusetts office of Wolf and Company. His academic foundation was built upon a bachelor's degree from Boston College, followed by acquiring an MBA from Babson College.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Nick is deeply woven into the fabric of his community. He actively engages with numerous non-profit organizations throughout the Fall River and New Bedford areas, leaving a lasting impact. His affiliations extend to co-chairing the City of Fall River's Task Force to End Homelessness, contributing to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's Strategic Planning Committee, serving on the board of the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce, and co-chairing the Southcoast Development Partnership.
Nick's commitment to education is unwavering, and he fervently advocates for local schools and encourages the business community to play an active role in shaping the education of our students. He extends his support by serving on various school boards, including Bishop Connolly High School and the Charlton College of Business at UMass Dartmouth. Additionally, he represents the MA Bankers Association on the MA DESE Financial Literacy Advisory Committee and lends his expertise to the Fall River School System's Scenario, Strategic, and Long-Range Planning Committees. Nick chairs the Fall River Chamber's Education Committee, spearheading the "edUP" campaign, which aims to highlight the critical importance of education in driving the region's future economic prosperity.
In essence, Nicholas M. Christ embodies the spirit of community leadership, leveraging his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to make a meaningful impact on the financial sector and the communities he serves.
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Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- President
Patrick began his insurance career in 2003, finding his professional home at BayCoast Insurance in 2006. In his role as President and CEO, Patrick carries the vital responsibility of shaping BayCoast Insurance's mission and vision for the future. His unwavering commitment extends to clients, team members, insurance companies, and the communities within their reach, influencing every strategic decision.
Patrick's educational foundation includes a bachelor's degree in business management from Eckerd College and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts. To further enhance his industry expertise, he has earned several nationally recognized designations, including Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS), and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC).
Deeply rooted in community service, Patrick dedicates his time to various endeavors. Beyond coaching his children in youth sports such as baseball, basketball, and soccer, he has served as the past President of the South Coast Insurance Agents Association, maintaining his involvement on their board of directors for over 15 years. Patrick's commitment extends to his active membership of the South Coast Business Alliance, which he founded in 2004. He also served as a devoted member of the Fall River Rotary Club from 2006 to 2018. Additionally, he has lent his expertise to several other local boards and committees, including the United Way, ARC, the Historical Society, and the Narragansett Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
Patrick and his family have made their home in Westport, where he resides with his wife, Laura, and their two boys, Charles and Thomas.
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Job Titles:
- First Vice President, BayCoast Financial Services, Investment Representative, Infinex Investments Inc
Prior to joining BayCoast Financial Services, formerly Citizens-Union Financial Services, in 2007, Paul served in the Wealth Management Groups at two regional banks: Bridgewater Savings Bank and Plymouth Savings Bank. As First Vice President and Registered Representative at BayCoast Financial Services, Paul manages investments and assets for clients, including mutual funds, annuities, income strategies, retirement plans, and 529 plans. Paul is also responsible for developing new business for Plimoth Investment Advisors and training Bank employees how to refer BayCoast Financial Services to their customers.
Paul holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Northeastern University in Boston. He is a FINRA General Securities Representative (Series 7 and Series 63), and holds the Massachusetts State Insurance License for Life and Health.
Since 2010, Paul has been an active participant in Credit for Life, an interactive financial literacy fair for high school students, throughout the south coast region. Paul is also a committee member of the Bishop Connolly Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament as well as a strong advocate and active member of the Sacred Heart food pantry since 2015. Paul was also asked to join the Watuppa Rowing Center Board in 2019 and has since been elected as the board's chair in 2020.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Associate Advisor, BayCoast Financial Services
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Chief Marketing Officer
- Senior Vice President
Robert Bergdoll holds over 25 years of extensive marketing experience, with two decades dedicated to leadership roles. In 2020, he brought his expertise to the BayCoast Bank team, leveraging a track record of driving growth and enhancing bottom-line performance across local, national, and global levels. Robert's diverse background encompasses work in the dynamic fields of hospitality, apparel, and home décor industries.
Robert's professional strengths lie in his unwavering customer-centric approach, adeptness in direct and digital marketing, proficiency in analytics, branding acumen, and talent for cultivating diverse and highly effective teams.
Robert has a bachelor's degree in business management from Western New England University. His commitment to professional growth led him to complete Executive Marketing programs at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, further enhancing his strategic capabilities.
Beyond his notable career, Robert dedicates his time to community engagement and mentorship. For 14 years, he has passionately coached youth sports, backed by an ACE certification spanning four years. He has also lent his expertise to two local athletics boards and has served as a mentor for youth and young adults through programs like the Boys & Girls Club and Marketing Edge. Robert has also contributed his time and energy to various national and global volunteering initiatives and is currently engaged with Mentor Rhode Island.
Robert calls Attleboro, Massachusetts, his home and is a proud parent of three accomplished children. In his leisure moments, Robert enjoys quality family time, live music, athletics, and traveling.
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Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors