Our History, Mission and Values
Bank of the James was founded in 1999 as we watched many of our local banks being taken over by large corporate banks and institutions. We saw the level of service and quality of banking available to our community erode as decisions were being made in other states, and customer service was defined by an automated message at the other end of a toll-free number.
When Bank of the James opened its doors, it brought together many of the area’s finest bankers. From a start-up team of 12 employees and 10 directors, the Bank has achieved the reputation as being one of the area’s leading financial institutions. Today our Company has more than 150 employees, 13 members serving on our Board of Directors and over 40 business men and women who serve on our regional advisory boards.
At Bank of the James, we’re committed to restoring your faith in banks. We combine experienced knowledge of the banking world with an intimate understanding of the communities in which we live and work. We’re unencumbered by the layers of bureaucracy that plague large institutions. We make all of our decisions at the local level which means you get answers quickly so you can move forward with your life and plans.
We focus on relationships first. By getting to know you, we’re able to find solutions that let you meet your goals and fulfill your dreams. We’re creative and understanding, plus we have the flexibility to customize loans and provide financial solutions that suit your situation.
Knowing that convenience is important to you, we offer innovative products and services, such as online banking, mobile banking, and remote deposit capture, so you can bank from anywhere in the world. In addition, our fees and interest rates are very competitive.
What really defines us is our team. Experienced, professional, and extremely approachable, our executives and staff are also immersed in their communities, where they donate time, energy, and expertise to local charities and organizations.
We’re making a difference – in banking and in our community.
Our Mission
Bank of the James will be the pre-eminent financial institution in the communities we serve through superior customer service.
Our Vision
Bank of the James will be the financial institution of choice.