Major Baltimore lender serving the Baltimore metro area, Baltimore Community Lending (BCL), today announced the retirement of President and CEO Watchen Harris-Bruce, who is scheduled to step down in 2026 after seven years of service. Bruce, who was recently honored as one of Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs by The Daily Record, will remain on board through the leadership transition.
The mission-based lender and community development financial institution (CDFI) provides affordable lending products to help low-income, low-wealth, and other disadvantaged people and communities join the economic mainstream.
In a bid to search for its next successor, BCL has engaged BroadView Talent Partners, a national executive search firm, to lead the process. According to a recent press release, the search will launch at the end of October and run through April. BroadView will begin the process by conducting interviews with community stakeholders to ensure the search reflects the perspectives and priorities of those whom BCL serves.
“Under Watchen’s leadership, Baltimore Community Lending has strengthened its financial foundation, expanded its reach, and deepened its impact in Baltimore,” said Michael Tagg, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We are grateful for her vision and steady guidance. As we look to the future, the board is committed to a thoughtful and seamless transition that will position BCL for continued growth and service.”
Bruce, who has previously held leadership roles both in the U.S. (such as Vice President at PNC Bank, Fleet Bank, and JPMorgan Chase) and in international projects aimed at economic and community development, particularly those funded by USAID in Liberia, will continue to serve as a consultant once the new CEO is on board and will remain with BCL until the end of her contract in November 2026. The organization noted this approach would ensure continuity and stability for staff, partners, and the communities BCL supports.
Reflecting on her tenure, Bruce said, “It has been the honor of my career to serve Baltimore Community Lending and partner with so many who share our commitment to equitable access to capital. I am confident in the team we have built and in the board’s plan to ensure BCL remains a trusted partner for small businesses, developers, and the communities we serve.”
The community lender has said it does not anticipate any disruption to its programs or community impact and will remain focused on advancing its mission, maintaining operational stability, and supporting the entrepreneurs and developers who rely on its services, which include providing loans to real estate developers and small business owners committed to developing underserved neighborhoods.
