Mechanics Bank announced the completion of its previously announced strategic merger with California Republic Bancorp, which became effective on October 1, 2016.
Upon the completion of the merger, John DeCero, formerly the President of CRB, and Jon Wilcox, formerly the Chief Executive Officer of CRB, became members of the board of directors of Mechanics Bank, and John DeCero succeeded Ken Russell to become the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mechanics Bank. Ken Russell
returns to the Ford Financial Fund, while continuing to serve as a director on the Mechanics Bank's Board.