Portage Community Bank Hires C. Joseph Assid as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

RAVENNA, Ohio, Oct. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Portage Community Bank ("PCB"), the wholly-owned bank subsidiary of Portage Bancshares, Inc. ("PBI"), is pleased to announce the appointment of C. Joseph ("Joe") Assid as Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Portage Community Bank ("PCB"). With over twenty-five years of professional experience specializing in financial institution accounting, audit, and assurance services and a proven track record of leadership, Mr. Assid brings a wealth of expertise to the role, further strengthening PCB's commitment to providing exceptional service to its customers, its community, and ensuring sustainable growth.

"We are excited to welcome Joe to our leadership team. His expertise and strong background in guiding financial institutions through complex challenges will be invaluable as we continue to grow and serve our communities. His proven track record, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to community banking align perfectly with our values. I am confident that under Joe's leadership, our financial strategy will continue to progress, enhancing both operational efficiency and balance sheet management." said Connie M. Bennett, Chief Executive Officer, Portage Community Bank.

Bennett also expressed gratitude to Robert S. Standardi, EVP and Chief Operating Officer (COO), who stepped in as interim CFO following the passing of longtime CFO and valued colleague, Donald D. Herman, in July 2025. "We are deeply appreciative of Robert's leadership and stability during a very difficult period. Robert will continue in his role as EVP and COO and will be a key partner to Joe as he transitions into his new role and responsibilities," Bennett said.

As CFO, Mr. Assid will oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, investment performance, and asset liability management. His expertise will also play a key role in strategic planning, continued growth, and ensuring PCB maintains its legacy of sound financial performance and meeting the financial needs of the communities the bank serves.

"I am honored to join PCB and to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I look forward to leveraging my experience to contribute to PCB's strategic vision, ensuring we continue to build on our strong legacy of community-focused banking and maintain the highest standards of financial excellence. My goal is to support PCB's long-term success while delivering value to our customers and shareholders and expanding opportunities for our team members and the communities we serve," said Joe Assid, EVP and CFO, Portage Community Bank.

Prior to his hiring, Mr. Assid held a significant role as Principal, Audit and Assurance Services, for S.R. Snodgrass, P.C., a regional public accounting and consulting firm headquartered in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. S.R. Snodgrass, P.C. is widely recognized for its specialization in the financial institutions industry. Mr. Assid has an extensive background in audit and assurance services with the firm, including overseeing numerous annual financial statement audits. Mr. Assid's responsibilities included keeping clients up to date with the ever-changing accounting field through his broad knowledge of the banking industry and SEC reporting requirements. He has extensive SEC experience with public reporting companies, which included assisting clients with filings under the 1933 and 1934 Acts, reporting requirements for Sarbanes-Oxley, and COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) compliance.

Mr. Assid is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson College in Washington, Pennsylvania with a bachelor's degree in accounting and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Connie M. Bennett
Chief Executive Officer
Portage Community Bank
(330) 296-8090

About Portage Community Bank
Portage Community Bank is dedicated to providing commercial and personal banking solutions and fostering growth within our communities, embodying the philosophy of "Neighbors Serving Neighbors." With a focus on customer service and community engagement, we strive to meet the financial needs of our customers while contributing to the economic vitality of our community. Portage Community Bank is an equal housing lender and member FDIC. More information about Portage Community Bank can be found on PCB's website at www.PortageCommunity.Bank.

SOURCE Portage Community Bank