NEWBURYPORT — Lloyd L. Hamm, chief executive officer of River Run, recently announced the appointments of Karl Denu as senior executive vice president and chief financial officer; and Jamie Gabriel as chief human resources officer and deputy chief administrative officer.
Denu will be based at River Run’s Harbor Place office and will oversee the organization’s finance division, including accounting operations, financial reporting, investment portfolio management, and strategic financial planning.
“Karl is a highly respected financial leader whose experience in financial management and reporting, balance sheet management, and regulatory compliance will be instrumental as we continue to grow,” Hamm said. “His executive leadership and expertise will further strengthen our financial operations and support our long-term strategic objectives.”
In his role, Denu will direct all financial reporting activities including management, generally accepted accounting principles, and regulatory reporting while overseeing asset/liability management, internal financial controls, and the bank’s funding and investment strategies. He will also lead the bank’s annual budgeting process and provide financial insights to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
“River Run has established a reputation for thoughtful financial management and strong community commitment,” said Denu. “I’m committed to providing clear financial insight, maintaining strong controls, and supporting the long-term financial health of River Run and its affiliated banks
Denu previously held leadership roles at Pentucket Bank, Centrix Bank, and Bank of New Orleans. He resides in Derry, New Hampshire, with his spouse, Suzanne, and their two children, Lucy and Leo.
Touted as a results-driven and people-first leader, Gabriel has built her career around creating workplaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and inspired to do their best work. Known for her collaborative approach, creative problem-solving, and genuine connection with people at every level, she is deeply committed to fostering inclusive, high-performing environments that celebrate both personal and professional growth.
“I’m thrilled to join River Run and its family of banks,” Gabriel said. “This organization is built on collaboration and purpose — values that resonate deeply with me. I look forward to helping shape an environment where every employee feels engaged, empowered, and inspired to deliver exceptional service to our customers and communities.”
To her new role, Gabriel brings extensive experience as a strategic advisor and trusted partner to executive teams and boards of directors, along with leadership development for all levels, executive succession planning, and strategic governance. This wide breadth of knowledge positions her as a key leader in advancing River Run’s mission to provide world-class support and resources to its affiliated banks and their teams, according to Hamm.
At River Run, Gabriel will play a key role in shaping employee engagement, culture, and development initiatives across the organization and its family of banks — Newburyport Bank, Pentucket Bank, and Rollstone Bank & Trust. Her focus will include enhancing total rewards programs, strengthening communication, and ensuring every employee feels empowered to make an impact in the communities they serve.
“Jamie brings exceptional expertise and insight to our leadership team,” said Lloyd Hamm. “Her proven ability to guide organizations through growth and transformation, while maintaining a strong people-centered focus, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the shared services model that supports our community banks and their employees.”
Outside of work, Gabriel is an active supporter of the Salem Boys & Girls Club, St. Joseph’s School, and Family Services of the Merrimack Valley. She is also an active member of the Greater Merrimack Valley Human Resources Association.
When she’s not working or volunteering, she enjoys spending time at the beach, traveling and her time with her husband and two children.
Established in 2023, and with collective assets of nearly $3.7 billion, River Run provides strategic support and shared resources to Newburyport Bank, Pentucket Bank, and Rollstone Bank & Trust. Learn more at www.riverrun.com