William (Bill) R. Eccles Jr., a 40-year banking veteran, assumed his new responsibilities as president and CEO of Fall River-based BankFive today.

Eccles began his career at BankFive as a teller in 1969, according to a statement. In 1989, he was appointed senior vice president and senior lending officer and was promoted to executive vice president in 2005. Eccles was appointed chief operating officer of the bank in 2009.

Eccles will be taking over the position from Tom Lyons, who recently retired.

"I’m committed to steering BankFive toward greater growth by offering the very best products and services to meet the financial needs of our customers," said Eccles. "I also am dedicated to deepening our already significant relationship with the community by continuing to support the organizations that promote the health and prosperity of our region."

Eccles is a member of the President’s Council at Charlton Memorial Hospital and an active member of the St. Joseph’s Church finance committee, according to a statement. He also serves on the strategic planning committee of the United Way of Greater Fall River, an organization he has been active with for more than 20 years.

Eccles is also a past chairman of the board of the Fall River Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the SouthCoast Development Partnership and the New Bedford CEO Council.