Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/687045
commercial development and construction management experience, Russell knew that it was vital to establish a strong relationship with a bank that he could trust. He has clearly done that with Braintree Cooperative Bank. "I have worked with other banks before. Big banks, where there is always so much turnover. Here, everything is much more consistent. I needed that, as I have taken myself from 50 employees down to just one (himself). Having such personal relationships with the members at Braintree Cooperative Bank will really help my business grow. In a short time, Corcoran has introduced me to Paul (Pecci, President & CEO of the bank). I never knew the senior officers at the other banks. I never had the level of comfort and the feeling of importance that I have here." Pecci has long said that the "strength of a community is dependent upon the strength of its individual members." The same holds true when discussing a business. "Small businesses, which create the majority of new jobs, depend heavily on small, local banks for financing," says Pecci. "Although small and mid-sized banks control a very small percentage of all bank assets, they account for a large percentage of all small business lending. Big banks deal with big business, which is fortunate for us smaller banks. We are more than happy to be able to service the small to mid-sized local businesses. They are our customers." The old adage that 'knowledge is key' rings true on so many levels, including building a successful community or successful business. At Braintree Cooperative Bank, safety, knowledge, experience and trust are core values in their business – values that they are committed to sharing with their customers. With Pecci, Corcoran and an incredibly talented team effort, individuals and businesses will continue to look to Braintree Cooperative Bank for all of their personal and commercial needs. For more information, please visit www.braintreecooperative.com. TheSouthShoreMagazine.com 21 development and investment, Vieira wanted to work with a bank that understood his needs and could help him build upon his successful business. "Other banks talk and make promises, but they can't always deliver," says Vieira. "Being able to deliver on those promises is most important. Not everything is a 'check-the-box' sort of thing. It is great to be able to work with people who are so creative. I feel that by working with Braintree Cooperative Bank, I will be able to continue the development aspect of my business as well as to take on larger projects. Everyone here is always open and honest and creative. Also, being with a smaller bank, it is far more intimate. They make you feel that you are much more than a spreadsheet or a number. They always go the extra mile." Admittedly, while Vieira may be a newer customer of Braintree Cooperative Bank, he is definitely a convert. Frank Sullivan and his family have been doing business with the bank for decades and simply love the relationship. As Owner/ President of Skinner Overlook Landscape & Design, Sullivan has been in the business for 38 years. He purchased his company with the help of the bank 17 years ago, as they listened to his needs and advised him with his best interests in mind. "The banking aspect was somewhat uncomfortable for me," says Sullivan. "I was always more in work and sales. But I found from the beginning that the personal piece with Braintree Cooperative Bank was great. I always felt that I could come right in and talk with them. I trust them. They are always there for me every step of the way and are always offering advice for ways to grow our business. No other bank had ever toured my facility. But here, they are never too busy to take care of their customers." Sullivan was also quick to say that working with Corcoran has been "outstanding." He believes that he is the right person to help him continue to grow his brand, and also says that he is a "great fit with a great bank." Another customer, Dan Russell of Sears Point Development, has quickly established himself as a "niche developer with a solid investment philosophy," as he continues to "seek to purchase, renovate and add value to existing distressed commercial properties." He is comforted by the fact that Braintree Cooperative Bank will be with him every step of the way. With nearly three decades of