PERKASIE, PA (August 2025) – Penn Community Bank, the largest independent mutual bank in eastern Pennsylvania, is proud to announce the promotion and hiring of two senior leaders to guide its growing presence in the Lehigh Valley.
The bank has long supported the region’s economic growth through Commercial & Industrial (C&I) lending and Commercial Real Estate (CRE) lending. In 2024, Penn Community Bank deepened its investment in the Lehigh Valley by opening new financial centers in Allentown and Bethlehem. Building on that momentum, the bank has strengthened its leadership team with the addition of two highly respected financial professionals with deep roots in the region:
- Khristopher Gefroh – Senior Vice President, C&I Team Lead
Khris brings nearly 30 years of experience in commercial banking, having served in senior roles at both local and large regional institutions. He has managed complex portfolios of businesses that contribute significantly to the Lehigh Valley’s economic strength. Beyond his professional expertise, Khris exemplifies Penn Community Bank’s “Greater Good Banking” values by volunteering his time and leadership to nonprofit organizations, including Ripple Community and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley.
- Marcus Pereira – Senior Vice President, Lehigh Valley Market Executive
Since joining Penn Community Bank as Regional Manager for the bank’s two Lehigh Valley financial centers, Marcus has distinguished himself through his business development acumen, community leadership, and expansive network of Centers of Influence. With more than 20 years of financial services experience at large regional banks, Marcus has consistently delivered results in retail and small-to-mid-sized business development. He also serves the community through leadership roles with organizations such as Muhlenberg College’s Board of Advisors, the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, the American Baptist Foundation, and Nehemiah Wall.
“Khris brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the commercial banking sector. His knowledge and commitment to the markets we serve make him an excellent fit to further strengthen our thriving Lehigh Valley team,” said Lewis Cyr, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer.
“Marcus embodies Penn Community Bank’s people-first philosophy. He has not only grown our retail presence in the Lehigh Valley but also strengthened community connections and partnerships that define who we are as a bank. His leadership will continue to position us as a trusted partner to businesses and families across the region,” said Bernard Tynes, Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banking Officer.
As we expand into the Lehigh Valley, Penn Community Bank remains focused on pairing regional growth with community impact – providing businesses and families with trusted financial solutions rooted in service, partnership and purpose.
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About Penn Community Bank: Penn Community Bank holds more than $2.9 billion in assets, employs more than 300 people, and offers banking and lending services at financial centers throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. As an independent, mutual financial institution, Penn Community Bank is not publicly traded and operates with its long-term mission in mind: to help businesses grow and prosper, to provide financial resources to individuals and families throughout their lifetimes, to strengthen the local economy, and to partner with local organizations to act as a catalyst for positive growth in every market it serves.
