Phil Emma to Retire from NH Mutual Bancorp

Philip “Phil” Emma, executive vice president and COO of NH Mutual Bancorp, is retiring on December 31st after 20 years with the organization.

His long career in financial and operational roles for public and private companies and financial institutions spanned 44 years. He joined Merrimack County Savings Bank (the Merrimack) in 2000 as senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer. In 2008, he was promoted to executive vice president, and in 2010 added the responsibilities of COO for the Bank.

He became executive vice president of NH Mutual Bancorp (NHMB) upon its formation in 2013, continuing in the position through his promotion to Chief Operating Officer. He also served as President of MillRiver Wealth Management from April 2015 through June 2016 and president of the Merrimack from January 2016 through October 2018.

“Phil’s talent and leadership have been vital to the success of our organization,” says Gregg Tewksbury, president and CEO of NHMB. “His banking knowledge and expertise coupled with his unwavering desire to retain the best of community banking, has been essential to the organization as Chief Operating Officer. Phil will be greatly missed, and we wish him the very best in the next phase of his life.”

“Under Phil’s leadership, the Merrimack sought every opportunity to lend responsibly, while supporting both personal and business customers,” added Linda Lorden, president of the Merrimack. “During his time as President, we’ve also increased our lending capacity, managed the growing cost of regulation and technology and provided more career opportunities for our valued employees. His commitment to Merrimack style has greatly benefitted our employees, customers and the communities we serve.”

“It has been an absolute honor to spend the last 20 years at such a remarkable organization,” says Emma. “We’ve developed a business model that has worked quite well. Our three banks have each recorded a significant amount of success over the past 150 years, by remaining loyal and respectful to employees, customers and the community. We are very fortunate to have the great talent that exists among our wonderful staff. I’m blessed and I’m fortunate to have connected with so many people over the years. Now, I’m looking forward to many new experiences with family and friends and opportunities to continue to make a difference.”