CONNECTICUT \ BEST IN BANKING
Your Bank, For Life
Headquartered in Danbury, Union Savings Bank offers a wide range of financial services for individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and government entities alike across the state. Its rich history dates back to 1866, when the bank’s first president, James Taylor, worked with other esteemed community members to promote the value of saving and safeguarding their peers’ assets. Today, under the leadership of Chelen Reyes, who took the helm as President and CEO in 2023, the bank continues to uphold the legacy of its founders and their original vision as a community-focused financial institution.
“We have a great story to tell, and I welcome every opportunity to engage in collaborative meetings and customer conversations, because that’s where we find opportunities,” says Reyes. His modern day to-do list is punctuated with instructions on how to conduct business efficiently and embrace challenges with his team head-on.
“Being efficient is an important discipline to practice, but flexibility is imperative. I value how my colleagues and I recognize when a strategy is not yielding desired results and acknowledging the need to make necessary adjustments,” he continues.
“Our efforts aren’t just words, but actions. We’re focused on long-term relationships, rather than short-term gains.”
Chelen Reyes, President and CEO
Life Comes First
This unwavering mindset has been integral to the bank’s ethos since its inception, and with over 20 years of industry experience, Reyes is eager to share his valuable insight while prioritizing processes and people. He’s also proud of Union Savings Bank’s 380-plus team members, who love what they do, listen, and take a universally embraced approach to understanding their customers and how the bank can constantly improve.
“Our efforts aren’t just words, but actions,” says Reyes. “We’re focused on long-term relationships, rather than short-term gains.”
Besides guiding customers through life’s milestones, and helping them establish dependable finances, Union Savings’ employees have volunteered over 100,000 hours to volunteerism and workforce development.
Established in 1998, The USB Foundation has reinvested over $10 million back into the community and other charitable programs, including the USB Teachers’ Closet””, USB Gives Back, reading and financial literacy programs, as well as many other philanthropic causes they hold dear to their hearts.
With $3 billion in assets, 25 branches, and technology comparable to large metropolitan banks, USB serves the financial needs of over 65 communities. The bank offers a full range of products and services, including competitive commercial and rapid loans for businesses. Additionally, USB’s wealth management team manages assets totaling $830 million. Meanwhile, the complimentary FutureTrack program, featuring a unique combination of personal financial coaching and digital tools, serves all ages by offering guidance on mapping out a customer’s financial journey, ensuring greater peace of mind.
As always, the USB narrative continues to model a trajectory of growth, employee engagement, and soundness underscored by operational efficiency. Reyes emphasizes that he’s excited to take the reins and lead the organization, continuing to support their customers through life’s challenges and opportunities.