Beloved Community Banker Retires, Passing the Torch to the Next Generation
After decades of dedicated service as a community banker and advocate, Stephen David, Synergy Bank Capital Market President, will retire. Though he is stepping away from daily operations, Stephen’s legacy of leadership, integrity, and commitment to our bank will continue as he remains a trusted advisor and board member.
For nearly 45 years, Stephen has been a mentor, advocate, and friend to countless individuals and local businesses in Pointe Coupee Parish and beyond. He began with Peoples Bank and Trust in 1981 as a Management Trainee, holding many titles throughout his career including Compliance Officer, Security Officer, Senior Loan Officer, and finally President and CEO in 1990. His tenure at Peoples Bank was marked by steadfast dedication to helping customers achieve their financial goals, from purchasing their first home to launching successful businesses.
“Ultimately, banking is about relationships,” Stephen said. “I am extremely proud of the relationships that have been built over the past 44 years. The credit for so much of the success I have enjoyed goes to my family, coworkers, board members, customers, and shareholders of our bank.”
Stephen has spent decades volunteering his time and talents to many organizations. He has served as the President/Chairman of the Louisiana Bankers Association, the LSU Graduate School of Banking, Pointe Coupee Chamber of Commerce, New Roads Lion’s Club, Pointe Coupee Catholic School System, and Pointe Coupee United Way, to name a few. His passion for leading teams extended beyond the bank as he has coached thousands of young adults in baseball, football, basketball, and softball – many reaching collegiate level of play.
Community-minded banking has remained a priority for Stephen. Under his guidance, Peoples Bank successfully merged with Synergy Bank, another local bank whose mission is focused on our community, in 2023. At this time, Stephen transitioned to Capital Market President where he still oversaw the daily operations of our four Capital Region locations in New Roads, Livonia, Central, and Baton Rouge. Stephen currently serves on Synergy Bank’s Board of Directors, where he contributes his extensive knowledge of banking, lending, and region and will continue to serve after retirement.
“It has been an honor to work alongside Stephen these past few years,” Jerry Ledet, Synergy Bank President and CEO, said. “His leadership and love of community cannot be overstated. We look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.”
As he steps into retirement, Stephen is passing his leadership role of New Roads Manager and Capital Market President to two trusted colleagues.
Tracy Rutledge, Senior Vice President and Commercial Lender, will assume the role of Capital Market President. Tracy, a native of Baton Rouge, has more than 22 years of bank lending experience and currently serves his community through University Lab’s Foundation, Trinity Episcopal Church, and as a local football and baseball coach.
“Working with Stephen has been an incredible experience,” Tracy said. “I am excited to build on the values and vision they’ve instilled, and ensure our team and community continues to grow and thrive.”
Corey Sarullo, Vice President and Lender, will assume the role of Vice President and Branch Manager of our New Roads location. Corey’s roots to our community run deep as a native of Grosse Tete and graduate of False River Academy in New Roads. With more than 16 years of bank lending experience, he will continue to work with our local business leaders and individuals to meet their financial needs. Corey gives back to our community through the Iberville Foundation for Academic Excellence, New Roads Lions Club, and various local nonprofit events.
“Stephen has been an incredible mentor, and his dedication to New Roads and beyond has set a high standard for all of us,” said Corey. “I look forward to maintaining the level of service and support our customers have come to rely on.”
Stephen is looking forward to spending more time with his family and friends and being a spectator at more of his grandchildren’s events. Who knows – maybe you’ll even see him coaching another team or two! In addition, he plans to spend a little more time golfing, fishing at his camp in Cocodrie, and getting more involved with his church St. Mary of False River and his alma mater Catholic of Pointe Coupee.
We thank Stephen for his many years of service to Synergy Bank and our community. Though retiring from day-to-day operations, Stephen won’t be far—his role as a board member and trusted advisor ensures that his wealth of experience will remain a guiding force at Synergy Bank.
“I take great pride in the legacy we created with Peoples Bank and now that legacy continues with Synergy Bank,” Stephen said. “My message to the community is simple – Synergy is aligned with the principles which made Peoples a success. We are a relationship bank – the same staff who are your neighbor and friends – are ready to serve you.”
