By: Jerry Sutherin, President & CEO, Young & Associates, Inc.
On January 31, 2018, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to purchase Young & Associates, Inc. from Mr. Gary Young, the company’s founder and current Chairman. Nearly 40 years ago, Gary created this organization with a vision of providing community banks with consulting services that were typically cost-prohibitive to perform internally. Since its inception in 1978, Young & Associates has evolved from a small start-up organization offering select outsourcing and educational services to one of the premier bank consulting firms with clients nationwide and overseas. We now offer consulting, education, and outsourcing services for nearly every aspect of banking.
From the outset of our acquisition discussions, Gary and I agreed that the greatest asset of the company is its employees. Over the years, not only has Gary developed unique servicing platforms for the industry but more importantly, he has assembled an employee base that is second to none. These employees provide a level of expertise and service to our clients that remains unparalleled in the community banking industry.
To quote Gary, “I founded Young & Associates with the goal of assisting community banks while maintaining a family atmosphere that valued and respected the people that I work with.” Going forward, it is my primary objective to carry on this legacy that Gary has created. I look forward to making this a seamless transition building on the solid foundation that Gary has built over the years. With the work of our employees and support of our clients, there is no doubt that Gary’s legacy will continue for years to come.
Although the ownership of Young & Associates, Inc. has changed, the company’s name, mission, personnel, quality of service, and structure will not change in any way. Gary now serves as Chairman of the Board and will remain actively involved with the business through January 2019, providing the same high-quality service while also assisting me with the transition. In addition to ensuring a smooth internal transition, Gary and I remain focused on making sure that the relationship with our clients remains strong. Existing and new clients are encouraged to contact me, Gary, or any of our consultants to discuss this transition and how we might be able to earn your business.