Bob Marino, new president of Doylestown-based Huntingdon Valley Bank, is wasting no time in targeting growth. He’s now staffing up with seasoned professionals to grow the $500-million-asset-size institution to a $1 billion one. Jeff Blumenthal reported on Marino’s plans for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

Marino sees the current whirlwind of banking M&A activity as an opportunity, both in terms of market share and acquiring seasoned bankers.

“There has been significant upheaval in the Philadelphia banking scene,” he said. “And the fastest and most efficient way to grow is by capitalizing on that upheaval and adding some new talent. I think there are a lot of people who want to work for a local institution and help it grow.”

In terms of assets, the exit of several community banks from the market leaves a void that Marino hopes to fill.

Marino came to the attention of Huntingdon’s leadership as a consultant, advising local banks on strategy, coaching, training, and marketing.

He helped guide the institution’s evolution from a savings and loan to a commercial bank via a $20 million initial public offering in 2017.

Marino eventually joined its board of directors and became vice-chairman last year.

More on Bob Marino and his new role at Huntingdon Valley Bank is at the Philadelphia Business Journal.