The Washington Trust Company has promoted James Vesey to executive vice president, and chief credit officer. This promotion recognizes Vesey's strong performance in leading the commercial lending function of the bank. Under his leadership, the commercial loan portfolio has grown and he has broadened the size, capabilities and expertise of the commercial lending team. Vesey has more than 30 years of banking experience including branch banking, corporate lending, and credit administration. He is a member of the Rhode Island Bankers Association, and a member of the Risk Management Association. He has also served on the Board of Governors of the Warwick Boys and Girls Club, as director of the Central RI Development Corporation and was the Westerly Chair of the 2000 and 2001 United Way Annual Campaign. Vesey has also served in leadership roles for the fundraising activities of the National Conference for Community and Justice, Meeting Street Center and Catholic Charities. He is a graduate of Bryant College.