Paul Durand, president of St. Martin Bank and Trust Co., will serve as the 2014-15 chairman of the Louisiana Bankers Association.
St. Martin Bank & Trust Co. President and CEO Paul Durand
Paul Durand, president of St. Martin Bank and Trust Co., will serve as the 2014-15 chairman of the Louisiana Bankers Association, according to a recent press release.
Durand's selection came during the association's 114th annual convention, held May 7-9 in New Orleans.
Durand, who earned a bachelor's degree from UL Lafayette and a master's from LSU, has worked 41 years in the banking industry, currently serving as the top executive for St. Martin Bank & Trust, which is headquartered in St. Martinville. Prior to his selection as chairman, Durand served terms as the association's treaser and chairman-elect.
While accepting the chairmanship during the association's convention in May, Durand laid out several goals for his year-long term, starting with a plan to encourage other veteran bankers to take an active role in recruiting and mentoring those entering the business.
Durand also addressed the dwindling number of banks in Louisiana over the last few decades, adding that since he entered the industry in the 1970s, the number has dropped from just over 230 banks down to 142. With fewer banks, as well as a drop in the number of bankers, Durand says it's important for bankers to make sure their voices are heard, whether in Washington, D.C., Baton Rouge or in their local communities.
The third goal outlined by Durand centers on maintaining and promoting pride in the banking profession.
"It's still an honorable profession," Durand told his fellow bankers. "The general public does not differentiate between types of bankers. So it is now more important than ever that the Main Street' bankers continue to support the economic growth of their communities."