Gov. Kemp Announces Oscar “Bo” Fears as New Banking and Finance Commissioner

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced his appointment of Oscar "Bo" Fears as the new Commissioner of Banking and Finance, effective September 1. Fears will succeed Commissioner Kevin Hagler, who dedicated multiple decades of his accomplished career to the people of Georgia and retired August 31, 2025 as the second longest-serving commissioner in the department's history.

Fears previously served as the Senior Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Banking and Finance and was responsible for the general administration and oversight of the department; the development of policies and procedures; and oversight of information technology, security, and project management. Fears first joined the agency in 2013 as the Deputy Commissioner for Legal Affairs, providing legal advice and support of the department's operations.

“On behalf of the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, I want to extend our sincere congratulations to Bo Fears on being named Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance. Bo’s deep knowledge, proven leadership, and commitment to serving Georgia’s financial institutions make him an excellent choice for this important role. We look forward to working closely with him to support a strong and thriving community banking environment across our state,” commented John McNair, President & CEO, CBA.