Leppert to step into role of board chairman for Sussex Bancorp

Franklin — Edward J. Leppert will assume the role of chairman of the board of directors of both the Sussex Bancorp and Sussex Bank effective Jan. 1, 2012. He succeeds Donald L. Kovach, who will continue as a director. "Ed has many years of financial experience, a solid corporate governance acumen and a thorough understanding of the customers and communities we serve; which will contribute immensely to our organizational progress,” said Anthony Labozzetta, president and CEO of Sussex Bank. Leppert is a CPA whose firm, located in Sandyston, has been in practice since 1986. In a press release, the bank reports that Leppert "is skilled in finance, governance and risk management. These attributes combined with his experience and knowledge of the northern New Jersey marketplace make him a valuable asset to the Bank. "For over nine years, Leppert served as the chairman of the audit committee for the bank and previously served as the vice chairman of the board." Leppert said: “I look forward to my new position as chairman. Sussex Bank is a local community bank with strong values and I believe in our mission and strategic direction; which includes building relationships, serving our community and delivering a superior customer experience.” Kovach, who steps down as chairman, was a founding coordinator and director of the bank and has served on the board since the bank was formed. Sussex Bancorp is the holding company for Sussex Bank, which operates through its main office in Franklin, and through its nine branch offices located in Andover, Augusta, Newton, Montague, Sparta, Vernon and Wantage, as well as Port Jervis and Warwick, N.Y., and for the Tri-State Insurance Agency, Inc. For information, visit www.sussexbank.com.