Washington State-based Charter Bank has appointed James Garvey as chief executive officer in anticipation of Keith Jackson`s planned retirement in 2010.

Mr Garvey was hired as president and chief operating officer of the Boston Private-owned bank in July of this year and will guide the bank as it positions itself for growth among high net worth and privately-owned business customers in the Pacific Northwest region.

Mr Garvey said: "I am extremely excited to assume this new role at the bank as we set our sights on continued growth amidst signs of an improving economic environment. We will continue to expand our private banking business and capitalise on opportunities to serve the high net worth market throughout the region."

Prior to joining Charter, Mr Garvey was for eight years president and chief executive officer of Flagship Bank and Trust in Worcester, Maryland, which he joined in 1999.

Charter has offices in Bellevue, Redmond, Kent and downtown Seattle.