New bank opened in Manassas

First Virginia Community Bank has opened a new facility in Manassas.

David W. Pijor, chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Gary R. English, Senior Vice President and Regional Executive Officer—Prince William County led the formal grand opening ceremonies recently of the bank’s newest office in the Sudley Tower, 7900 Sudley Road.

At the ceremony, Pijor told the gathering that “Sudley Tower has been home to many great banks and we’re very pleased to open our second office in such a great building. Just as importantly, though, we’re honored to have Gary English and his outstanding team join us.”

English introduced his Manassas colleagues: Christine Rowe, Vice President Business Development, Stan Keys, Vice President and Office Manager, Mary Michaels, Customer Service Representative and Loretta Brickley, Teller Operations.

Joining in the ribbon cutting ceremony was Susan Jacobs with the Prince William County-Greater Manassas Chamber of Commerce who said “Prince William County is a great place for business.”
Pijor concurred and noted the pre-formal opening development efforts have been well received in the community.

Pijor said that prior to opening the initial First Virginia Community Bank in November 2007 he had been chairman of James Monroe Bank until it was sold in 2006.

In organizing the new bank, Pijor led the efforts to raise $18-$20 million in capital. Due to the overwhelming response, the bank raised $23 million in nine weeks. He attributed the success to the Board’s vision of creating a highly personalized banking environment that would be supported by experienced bankers with state-of-the-art products and services. These services include free online banking and bill paying, unlimited and free access to ATMs throughout the world, remote deposit capture for business and private banking services.

English said the initial response from the Manassas/Prince William County community has “been excellent.” In addition to old friends and colleagues stopping by the office, calling efforts are underway to meet with business and community leaders.

Pijor concluded the ceremony by saying “It’s a great time to start a bank, We have none of the current loan portfolio challenges facing other banks. We’ve assembly an experienced group of bankers that can assist our businesses and families through the ups and downs of the communities we serve. Just as importantly, though, we’ve got the products and services to compete with anyone.”

First Virginia is a Fairfax headquartered state chartered bank whose corporate offices and main office are located at 11325 Random Hills Road, Fairfax. The bank raised $23 million capital earlier in 2007 and completed one of the fastest new bank openings in just 11 months.

Staff writer Bennie Scarton Jr. can be reached at (703) 369-6707.