Back/Virginia National Bankshares Announces CFO Transition as Tara Y. Harrison Retires
banking·November 21, 2025·vabk

Virginia National Bankshares Announces CFO Transition as Tara Y. Harrison Retires

ED
Editorial
Cashu Finance·2 min read
TL;DR
  • Virginia National Bankshares announces CFO Tara Y. Harrison's retirement effective November 21, 2025, following significant growth during her tenure.
  • Incoming CFO Cathy W. Liles aims to enhance community-focused initiatives and maintain strategic financial operations continuity.
  • The leadership transition reflects Virginia National Bankshares' commitment to community banking and expanding service offerings across Virginia.

Virginia National Bankshares Transitions Leadership with New CFO Appointment

Virginia National Bankshares Corporation, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, prepares for a significant leadership transition with the retirement of Chief Financial Officer Tara Y. Harrison, effective November 21, 2025. Harrison's tenure at the bank is marked by an impressive growth trajectory, having helped elevate the bank's assets from $800 million to $1.6 billion. Her strategic financial acumen has been particularly vital during challenging times, including the bank's merger and the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As she steps down, Harrison will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor, ensuring her expertise remains accessible during the transition.

Harrison's decision to retire is met with understanding from Glenn W. Rust, the President and CEO of Virginia National Bankshares, who commends her substantial contributions to the bank’s status as one of Virginia’s more profitable community banks. The leadership change is more than just a transition; it reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to its mission of community banking while adapting to evolving market conditions. The incoming CFO, Cathy W. Liles, brings a wealth of experience in financial leadership and a collaborative spirit, having previously worked with Harrison on the CFO Committee of the Virginia Bankers Association. This established rapport is expected to ease the transition and maintain continuity in the bank's strategic financial operations.

As Liles steps into her new role, she expresses her enthusiasm for furthering the bank’s community-focused initiatives. Virginia National Bank, with its seven banking offices across Fauquier and Prince William counties, Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and additional locations in Winchester and Richmond, is poised to leverage its strong leadership to strengthen its service offerings. This leadership shift is not only pivotal for Virginia National Bankshares but also represents an opportunity for the institution to build on its solid foundation while continuing to provide lasting value to its shareholders and the communities it serves.

In addition to the leadership transition, Virginia National Bankshares remains committed to enhancing its community relationships and expanding its range of banking services. The bank’s operational footprint across various strategic locations positions it well for growth in the competitive Virginia banking landscape. The collaborative efforts of both Harrison and Liles signal a focused approach to navigating future challenges and opportunities.