Bank of South Carolina Unveils Succession Plan Ahead of Leadership Changes

CHARLESTON, S.C. — At the annual meeting of shareholders on April 8, 2025, Bank of South Carolina Corporation (OTCQX: BKSC) disclosed a strategic management succession plan. Douglas H. Sass, the executive vice president and senior lender, plans to retire on December 31, 2025, after a distinguished 31-year career with the bank.

Despite his retirement, Sass will maintain connections by remaining on the board of directors for both the corporation and the bank, where he will also continue his involvement in commercial lending and business development.

Effective January 1, 2026, Robert M. Hollings, III will step into Sass’s role as the new senior lender. Hollings, who has been with the bank since 2010, has held various positions in credit, lending, and business development, currently serving as a senior vice president since 2022.

“I am excited to welcome Robbie and Jen to our management team. Their dedication and commitment to our continued growth and success have rightfully earned them this opportunity,” said Eugene H. Walpole, IV, president and CEO of Bank of South Carolina.

Joining Hollings in the new leadership structure, Jennifer A. Arato has been appointed chief credit officer, effective the same day. Arato has been with the bank since 2002, starting as a personal banker and working her way up through various levels, currently managing the Credit Department since 2006.

Walpole praised Sass for his “countless contributions to our employees, customers, and shareholders,” emphasizing the importance of a planned transition for continued success.

Sass began his career in 1994 as a commercial loan officer and advanced through the ranks to oversee all credit and lending functions as executive vice president. His comprehensive experience includes developing the bank’s Real Estate Appraisal Review program and serving on the board since 2013.

Similarly, Hollings boasts a strong community presence, serving as treasurer for both the Lowcountry Land Trust and The Charleston Museum. He graduated from Hampden-Sydney College and furthered his banking expertise at the South Carolina Bankers School and the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Arato holds an MBA from The Citadel and is active in local initiatives, contributing to various committees within the South Carolina Community Loan Fund and the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments.

Founded in 1987, the Bank of South Carolina has established itself as a significant force in the financial sector with offices in Charleston, North Charleston, Summerville, Mt. Pleasant, James Island, and West Ashley.