James Wheeler, Jr., Esq.

Jake has been a member of the Community Financial Services Group’s Board of Managers since the Company’s formation in 2002. Jake serves on the Company’s Personnel Committee, having previously served on its Audit Committee for many years. In addition to his service on our Board, he has been a director of Community Bancorp and its subsidiary Community National Bank since 2011. Jake has practiced law in St. Johnsbury since 1974 with the state’s largest law firm, Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC, and has been a member of the firm since 1978. He is now Of Counsel to the firm as he transitions to retirement from the practice of law. His practice over the years has principally been focused in the areas of corporate governance, transactions and financing; complex real estate acquisitions and financing; and trusts and estates and estate planning. Jake received his undergraduate degree from Harvard University and his law degree from Boston University School of Law. He previously served on the Board of the Vermont Community Foundation, where he continues to serve on its nominating committee. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the newly formed David and Francis Smith Northeast Kingdom Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Jake’s judgment and insight as a seasoned attorney provides a valuable addition to our Board. He lives in East Burke, Vermont.