Vernon believes that the value of a bank is in its deposits. He believes that Customers will be willing to give more of their deposits in exchange for a better banking experience, and that great companies are built by creating Fans not Customers. By applying this philosophy, Vernon built Commerce Bank into one of the largest banks in America with 15,000 team members, 500 branches and $50 billion of assets. It was purchased in July 2007 by TD Financial for $8.5 billion. Commerce was voted the best bank in America in 2006, 2007 and 2008 by JD Power and Associates for its absolute commitment to Customers. It also produced exceptional shareholder returns.
Vernon is Chairman of Pet Plan North America. He is a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.