Banking During Turbulent Economic Times

Exclusive Interview with Dave Gill, President and CEO of MileStone Bank headquartered in Doylestown, Pa.

Introduction:
In 2007, David W. Gill (President and CEO) and Elijiah Gray (CFO) co-founded MileStone Bank in response to industry consolidation that resulted in larger, more impersonal financial institutions. They saw an unmet need in the market and had a vision to provide target client segments (including dental professionals) with a new kind of banking that combines the highest level of personalized service with the latest in cutting-edge banking technology. They assembled a hand-selected team of experienced, knowledgeable bankers along with exceptional products and the results have been rewarding for both the client and the organization.

The Doctor of Dentistry editor was curious about a new kind of banking during these turbulent economic times and conducted the following interview to learn more:

Doctor of Dentistry: The current economic environment poses a unique set of challenges within the financial industry. How is MileStone weathering the storm?
Dave Gill: We agree with a recent Business Week special report that cited “This may be the ideal time to start a bank…startups hold a key advantage: a clean slate…they can deal with customers instead of dealing with problems.” Many larger banks are overwhelmed with managing TARP (troubled asset recovery program) and the operational details of resulting mergers. MileStone Bank is able to focus on meeting the loan and deposit needs of clients with agility not bureaucracy and red tape. Our clients find it refreshing.

Doctor of Dentistry: What geographic markets does MileStone serve?
Dave Gill: Because of our business model and innovative delivery systems, we are not restricted to a specific geographic territory. We can offer clients “banking without boundaries”. In fact we have over 100 locations throughout Pennsylvania and bordering states. In essence, we provide a banker on your doorstep for personalized service when you need it; and, we supplement that with a branch on your desktop - Remote Control banking system. The system enables checks to be deposited electronically using a scanner and secure online banking. Clients love the convenience, are delighted with the financial benefits of having next-day access to deposited funds, and appreciate that the package is FREE.

Doctor of Dentistry: What qualifies MileStone to be specialists in the dental industry segment?
Dave Gill: We have been serving the dental industry for the past 20 years with everything from loans to start their practice or buy new equipment to the state of the art Remote Control banking technology. Understanding the unique needs of dental professionals, we have responded with services distinctively designed to help the office run more efficiently so doctors can build their practices more effectively.

Doctor of Dentistry: I can see that you offer benefits to the industry, what’s in it for you?
Dave Gill: It’s rewarding to meet the needs of our clients and receive their endorsement through referred business. And, our client focus pays high dividends…we are the fastest growing bank in suburban Philadelphia. MileStone Bank is well capitalized, and has a strong and healthy balance sheet. It’s especially fulfilling to see the successes of clients like Dr. Gary Nack recently voted 2008 Best of Bucks County in the dentistry category. We look forward to building relationships with dental professionals for years to come.

Dr. Gary Nack:
“Their service is the best and they will bend over backwards to make things work for you- they are cutting edge, tech savvy people. The check deposit machine is a flawless way of doing banking. I cannot say enough good things of their bank,” says Dr. Nack a dentist from Bucks County.

For more information about MileStone bank, call 866-672-2655 or go to www.milestonebank.com