The annual general meeting of Washington Trust Bancorp, the parent company of The Washington Trust Company, highlighted that its chairman and CEO, John Warren, will retire on 30 April. He will be succeeded by Joseph MarcAurele, currently president and chief operating officer.

Warren has held the position for 14 years. Under his leadership the bank grew its assets considerably and made four acquisitions. Under new leadership it will continue to explore growth opportunities “either through organic growth or strategic acquisitions,” said MarcAurele.

Also at the meeting, Warren was elected to the company’s board of directors for a term ending 2013; also elected were Barry Hittner, Katherine Hoxsie, Edward Mazze and Kathleen McKeough. In addition, tribute was paid to Neil Thorp, who is retiring from the board after 27 years of service.

Washington Trust Bancorp had assets of $2.9 billion as of 31 March 2010, and reported net income of $16.1 million for 2009.