First County in Connecticut hires Berkshire CEO as its new leader

First County Bank in Stamford, Conn., has hired Nitin Mhatre as its CEO.

The $2.2 billion-asset bank said in a press release that Mhatre will succeed Robert Granata. Mhatre will become CEO on April 15, while Granata will remain chairman until July.

Mhatre had been the CEO of Berkshire Bancorp in Boston since January 2021. Berkshire recently rebranded as Beacon Financial after buying Brookline Bancorp.

Paul Perrault, Brookline’s chairman and CEO, became Beacon’s CEO.

The board “unanimously concluded that Nitin brings the experience, values, and leadership approach that strongly align with First County Bank’s mission, vision, and long-standing mutuality,” Granata said in the release. “His dedication to customer service, commitment to community partnership, and proven ability to lead organizations through thoughtful, responsible growth make him the right leader to guide First County Bank into its next chapter.”

Mhatre will officially assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on April 15, 2026. Granata will work closely with Mhatre and the Board of Directors to ensure a smooth transition over the coming months. He will remain Chairman until July 31, 2026, while also continuing to serve on the Board of Directors.