Meet Gary J. Vierra

Vierra started his journey with BayCoast Bank in September 2015, stepping into the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer. In this capacity, he shoulders the critical responsibilities of risk management, project management, cannabis banking operations, compliance/BSA, audit, information security, and physical security, extending his oversight to encompass all business units and subsidiaries under the bank’s umbrella. As a key member of the senior management team, Vierra maintains a close partnership with the senior management team, the Audit Committee, and the Board of Directors, playing an integral role in shaping risk management and compliance strategies. Additionally, Gary chairs the bank’s Risk Management Committee.

With a robust 42-year banking career, Vierra possesses a wealth of experience spanning finance, operations, information technology, and risk management. He has held executive-level positions at three distinguished financial institutions, including BankFive in Fall River, the former Slades Bank (now part of Rockland Trust), and the former First Federal Savings Bank of America (now part of Webster Bank). Vierra’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Accounting, and a master’s in business administration, both earned from Bryant University.

Beyond his professional achievements, Vierra enjoys a fulfilling personal life as a married individual with three children. He calls Narragansett, Rhode Island, his home, where he actively engages in church and civic activities. Notably, he served as a Founding Director and Treasurer for the Argosy Collegiate Charter School in Fall River, Massachusetts, demonstrating his dedication to educational initiatives. Moreover, Vierra has dedicated 16 years of his life to various leadership roles within the Boy Scouts of America, further exemplifying his commitment to community service and youth development.