Brookline Bank has made a new hire to lead its commercial banking division.

The bank announced yesterday that David B. L’Heureux has joined Brookline Bank as executive vice president in the commercial banking division. Prior to Brookline Bank, L’Heureux worked in the New England commercial banking division at Santander Bank for roughly 32 years, according to his LinkedIn profile, and will bring top level skills in business development, revenue generation and credit risk administration.

“David has a proven record of sourcing and nurturing long-term business relationships with clients,” Brookline Bank CEO Darryl Fess said in a statement. “His demonstrated history of providing inspirational leadership and expertly implementing strategies that drive business will be invaluable to the continued growth of Brookline Bank’s C&I portfolio.”

In his previous roles at Santander, L’Heureux provided proactive business advice and financial solutions to middle market companies in New England. His areas of expertise include recommending appropriate capital structures, treasury management, interest rate and foreign exchange management, as well as international trade and related assistance.

L’Heureux is replacing veteran Brookline Bank Commercial Banking Division Head William MacKenzie.

“David will have big shoes to fill,” Fess said. “Bill Mackenzie started our commercial banking practice from scratch over 10 years ago and is responsible for having built a major contributor to the bank’s service offering and revenue. We salute Bill for his dedication to creating what is a first class commercial banking capability.”

MacKenzie will remain with Brookline Bank in a part-time consulting and business development role.