Highmark Western and Northeastern New York Announces New Board Appointments

Buffalo, New York (April 24, 2026) – Highmark Western and Northeastern New York today announced changes to its Board of Directors, appointing Richard S. Gold, former President and COO of M&T Bank Corporation, as its new Chairperson. Additionally, Jill K. Bond, Esq., a distinguished attorney, has been named as a new member of the Board.

Richard S. Gold brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role as Chairperson.

He concluded a distinguished three-decade career at M&T in 2023, where he served as President and Chief Operating Officer of M&T Bank Corporation and its principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank. Throughout his tenure, he cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the banking industry, holding a variety of leadership roles across Retail Banking, Business Banking, Mortgage, Consumer Lending, Risk and Marketing.

He holds a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a Master of Business Administration from New York University Stern School of Business, providing a strong foundation for his executive career.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Gold demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the Western New York community and the broader banking industry. His dedication is evident through past and recent board service with the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County, Buffalo Seminary, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, and the Consumer Bankers Association. He further shared his expertise as a valued member of the Dean’s Advisory Council at the University at Buffalo School of Management, where he has also enriched students' learning as an adjunct professor for the past twelve years.

Jill K. Bond, Esq., a highly respected attorney, joins the Board as a new member, bringing a robust legal background and a fresh perspective. Her expertise will be crucial in guiding Highmark through an evolving health care and regulatory environment.

Bond recently founded The Bond Firm, LLC, specializing in Corporate Internal Investigations, Labor and Employment Law, Ethics and Compliance, and Food Regulatory Matters.

Prior to this, Bond dedicated 35 years to Rich Products Corporation, retiring in 2023 as Senior Vice President, Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer.   Her extensive experience includes leading the company through crises such as food recalls, lawsuits, and the COVID pandemic. She also played a key role in founding and leading Rich's women's affinity group for over a decade.

Active in the legal community, Bond served as President of the Bar Association of Erie County and is currently on its Judiciary Committee and the Attorney Grievance Committee for the New York State Appellate Division Fourth Department.

She is an alumna of Canisius College and the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law, where she has also served on their respective boards and advisory councils. Bond has furthered her executive education at the University of Michigan, Kellogg School, and Harvard Business School. She has also contributed to several boards, including the Women’s Foodservice Forum and the Center for Elder Law and Justice.

These appointments underscore Highmark Western and Northeastern New York’s commitment to strong governance and a strong leadership team dedicated to serving the needs of its members and the broader community.