Five years can go by in the blink of an eye, and for Sam, that time has been filled with growth, connection, and a deep sense of community at Saco & Biddeford Savings.
Sam joined SBSI shortly after graduating from the University of Southern Maine. Originally from Wiscasset, Sam was brought to the Biddeford area through his time at USM and quickly found a sense of belonging both at the Bank and in the surrounding community. From the start, SBSI stood out as a place where relationships — both among employees and with customers — truly mattered.
He began his career at SBSI working in the Biddeford branch, which he says was conveniently close to where he lived at the time. Early on, the opportunity to train and work across multiple branches helped solidify his connection to the Bank. Sam’s first three weeks of training took place in Old Orchard Beach, where he learned the fundamentals of banking and teller operations, followed by customer service training in Saco during the summer of 2022.
“One thing that really helped me feel like a meaningful part of the Bank was the ability to work in other branches,” Sam shared. “I felt welcomed wherever I went.”
In the spring of 2024, shortly after the Bank’s conversion, Sam was promoted to Customer Relationship Officer (CRO) in the Biddeford branch. His time on the retail side allowed them to build strong relationships with customers and become an active part of the local community, an experience Sam deeply values.
In early 2025, Sam’s journey took another turn. After moving out of the area, he transitioned from Retail into a back‑office role that offered a hybrid work‑from‑home schedule. Today, Sam is a valued member of the Digital Banking team, bringing with him a unique perspective shaped by years of frontline customer experience.
What makes SBSI special to Sam is the community he’s built along the way.
“I’ve worked in all but two branches at one point in time and met so many incredible people,” Sam said. “I deeply cherish the relationships I’ve built with both customers and coworkers, and I’ve always felt a sense of belonging wherever I’ve landed.”
Outside of work, Sam is also a musician and performs in several bands across the state. His primary gig is with the Larry Williams Band, a wedding band he’s been part of for three (going on four!) seasons. Music has not only been a creative outlet for Sam, but serves as an additional way to stay connected with the community as well.
One standout moment came when a Bank customer, after learning Sam was in a wedding band, attended one of their performances. The groom loved the band so much that he booked them for his wedding in Biddeford Pool — a moment that Sam considers a highlight of his musical journey.
“That experience strengthened my sense of community within SBSI,” Sam shared. “It never would have happened if I hadn’t met and spoken with that customer. Those relationships are what make me proud to work here.”
After five years, Sam’s story is one of adaptability, connection, and the power of community both inside and outside the Bank. We are thankful for the creativity, energy and heart he brings to the team and grateful to have him as a part of our SBSI family.
