Primis Bank Announces Don Savino as Chief Risk Officer

Strengthening leadership as Primis continues its momentum and growth.

RICHMOND, Va. (Dec. 3, 2025) — Primis Bank recently announced the appointment of Don Savino as its new chief risk officer, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to strong governance, disciplined growth and industry-leading risk management.

Savino brings more than 20 years of banking experience, having served in senior leadership roles across enterprise risk, compliance, internal audit, product evaluation and regulatory strategy. Most recently, he served as chief enterprise risk officer at First Foundation. His background also includes significant leadership roles at Pacific Western Bank, Square 1 Bank and American Community Bank.

“For years now, we have been building an ambitious team at Primis that cares about customer growth with innovative solutions.  With the momentum the Company is experiencing, it is important to have strong Risk Management leadership at the table.  Having Don on the team at this time is crucial as his expertise spans every key area of enterprise risk and compliance”, said Dennis Zember, CEO of Primis Bank.

In previous roles, Savino led the design and execution of enterprise risk management programs, including governance structure, risk appetite development, board committee oversight, risk-assessment frameworks, and regulatory exam management. He also played a key role in mergers and acquisitions due-diligence efforts, helping institutions evaluate risk and readiness during periods of strategic expansion.

Savino holds a Master of Science degree in banking from Mercy University, is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School, and is a Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) through the American Bankers Association.

Savino’s appointment follows the interim leadership of Susan Williamson, who served as Interim CRO during the transition. Williamson will continue in her role as chief regulatory officer, where she has been advancing key regulatory initiatives and supporting the bank’s forward-looking growth strategy.

“I feel very fortunate to be part of this team.  The culture at this bank is different. You can sense an attitude here that is rooted in ambition and leadership and doing things differently.  But better.  I’m excited to get started.”

About Primis

Primis Bank (Member FDIC) is a high-growth, forward-thinking bank committed to building a better banking experience for consumers, businesses, and communities. With industry-leading digital tools, a relentless focus on customer care, and a culture built around doing things the right way—not the easy way—Primis continues to invest in growth, innovation, and people.

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Media Contact

Mandi Gilbert
SVP, Director of Marketing

803.391.6216
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www.primisbank.com