Dennis Shaffer, president and CEO of Civista Bancshares and CEO of Civista Bank, will retire effective Aug. 28, 2026, shortly after his 64th birthday. At that time, Charles “Chuck” Parcher, current president of Civista Bank, will assume the role of president and CEO of Civista Bancshares and Civista Bank. Shaffer will remain actively involved as chairman of the board and will continue serving on the board of directors to support a seamless leadership transition.
Shaffer’s retirement marks more than 40 years of service in the banking industry. His career reflects a deep commitment to relationship banking, disciplined growth and community-focused leadership.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve this organization and the communities we support,” Shaffer said. “I believe Civista is in a very strong position. We have a talented leadership team, a more than capable successor in Chuck, and employees across the organization who care deeply about our customers and our communities. That gives me great confidence in the future.”
Under Shaffer’s leadership, Civista strengthened its financial performance, enhanced its capital position and continued to grow while maintaining its independence. He has consistently emphasized authenticity, accountability and empathy as guiding leadership principles. In a recent internal interview recognizing his 40 years in banking, Shaffer shared that relationships have been the most rewarding part of his career, noting that the people he has worked alongside and served have been his greatest inspiration.
The board of directors initiated formal succession planning more than a year ago when Parcher was named president. Parcher has worked closely alongside Shaffer for several years and brings extensive executive leadership experience to the role.
“Dennis has led Civista with integrity, discipline and a genuine commitment to people,” Parcher said. “He has been both a colleague and a mentor, and his steady leadership has positioned the bank for continued success. I am grateful for the foundation he has built and that he will remain as chairman of the board to help guide this next chapter. I look forward to leading our continued growth and service to our customers, employees, shareholders and communities.”
The interim transition period reflects the board’s long-standing commitment to stability and transparency. With numerous years in executive leadership and nearly two years of experience in the president role, Parcher has already assumed significant responsibilities, ensuring continuity in strategic direction and day-to-day operations.
Reflecting on his legacy, Shaffer has said he hopes Civista will be remembered as “a strong and well-run organization that earned its independence through strong earnings and prudent financial performance, and that grew by employing talented people who cared deeply about our customers and communities.”
