The following article was featured in the Progress section of Today's Sunbeam, February 2010.

At Franklin Bank, much of 2009 was focused on ensuring fiscal stability and providing outstanding customer service. Franklin achieved high marks on both accounts, according to Tom Murray, Franklin Bank president/CEO.

While many financial institutions struggled under the strain of the troubled economy, Murray said Franklin Bank is pleased to remain a well-capitalized bank.

"To most people the safety and soundness of their bank is very important and it's nice to be able to report that Franklin exceeds the highest capital standard required by our regulators."

Franklin Bank operates three branch offices in Salem County, two in Gloucester and one in Cape May County. There is also a drive-up facility in Salem City. Franklin Bank is a full-service financial institution that offers checking, savings and retirement services for both individuals and businesses. The bank also provides a full range of loan services encompassing both consumer and business lending.

With a well-established presence in Salem County that dates back to 1861, Franklin Bank turned to another objective during 2009, completing its strategic plan. This plan reflects the needs of Franklin's customers as well as the community. It is a roadmap guiding the bank's future direction and will be utilized by every level of the organization.

"In the end, we believe that customer service excellence defines our organization," Murray said. "It drives our thought process and impacts our decision making at all levels. This enables us to maintain a standard of customer service that sets us apart from other financial institutions."

This strategic plan, a document compiled by the combined efforts of Franklin's management team and its board of directors, which is led by Dr.Peter B. Contini, provides the blueprint to providing the highest level of customer service possible, Murray said.

The plan includes in-depth training and continuing education for management and staff focusing on leadership, communication, and customer service.Murray said the plan presents staff with a sense of empowerment, giving them the confidence to offer innovative ideas and encourages them to make independent and local decisions.

In 2010, Franklin Bank plans to place added focus on its volunteer and community efforts. Murray said Franklin Bank employees have always been eager volunteers, working hard to offer their services and skills to many of our local non-profit organizations.

This focus is being taken to a new level as Franklin Bank has become a Partner of Salem County. By becoming a Partner, Murray said he believes Franklin Bank will make a positive contribution to both the partnership and the people and businesses of Salem County.

In 2010, Franklin Bank will begin celebrating its 150-year anniversary by introducing new services to business customers and new products as well.

Murray emphasized, "We realize our future success relies on us remaining relevant to our customers, delivering the products and services they need, and doing it in a way that goes beyond expectation."