Jim Roche

“In our increasingly digital world, face-to-face relationships where bankers are familiar with their customers are becoming increasingly important in the fight against fraud," said Jim Roche, president of the Maine Bankers Association.

Jim Roche joined the organization as president in August 2021 after leading the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire for 17 years. He succeeded Chris Pinkham.

Jim Roche joined the organization in August 2021 after leading the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire for 17 years.

Maine's congressional delegation is urging the Treasury Department to pump the brakes on an action that would eliminate paper checks for Social Security benefits, vendor payments and tax refunds by Sept. 30.

The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, scheduled to take effect in March, will prohibit credit reporting agencies from selling consumers' contact information when they apply for a mortgage.

New Hampshire has seen continued growth, and Maine bankers are seeing opportunities.

A number of Maine-based banks have been expanding into New Hampshire in recent years. The goal is to broaden markets and serve existing New Hampshire customers, while remaining close to the Maine base.

Jim Roche, president of the Maine Bankers Association, said he expects more banks to seek economies of scale through combinations.

Mainebiz spoke with Maine leaders about today’s banking environment, customer preferences and bank strategy. Here’s what they had to say.

A new public service campaign in Maine encourages viewers to establish a code word known only to family members, and to use it if someone calls asking for money.