Investing in Community Bank Leadership!

CBA of GA kicked off its L.E.A.D Retreat on beautiful Jekyll Island last week by creating a space to learn, be creative and take action. The LEAD Board met on Wednesday to lay a groundwork to support the community banking industry through increased engagement.

The LEAD Retreat offered the opportunity to build connections with fellow bankers and service partners, while learning strategies to advance attendees’ careers.

A sampling of speakers, topics and activities included:

• Innovation Driven Growth:  Igniting the Flame of Innovation - David Peterson, First National Bankers Bank
• Leadership is Hard/Work Life Balance - Chris Kelley, Barrett School of Banking
• Leadership Panel - Debbie Peterson, Moderator; Jason Rooks, Stephanie Foster, Tony Webb, David Peterson, Mark Faas
• Leadership Roundtables - Kristi Greer & LEAD Leadership Team
• Retreat Learning Highlights - Jonathon Pope, Exchange Bank
• Navigating Innovation: Empowering Community Bankers for Future Success - Stephanie Foster, ICBA
• From Frustrated to FOCUSED: A Roadmap to Your Banking Career - Debbie Peterson
• Conference Highlights!  Action Planning and Next Steps – All Attendees

Special thanks to our sponsors: Abram Armored, Barret School of Banking, Crescent Mortgage, First National Bankers Bank, Genesys Technology Group, ICBA Securities, James Bates Brannan Groover LLP, Point to Point Environmental, SHAZAM, STS Group, and Travelers. 

“Relationships and new connections were created during each session of the LEAD retreat.  The leaders of the community banking industry share their gratitude in getting to participate as they continue to grow their own skills for their careers,” stated Kristi Greer, SVP, Professional Development at CBA.

If you want to invest in the leaders of your banks, CBA’s LEAD Board invites each of you to get involved in professional development, advocacy and member engagement initiatives.  Your bank does not have to serve on the LEAD board to participate.   Check out these initiatives on our webpage or contact a LEAD board member to get involved.

A few comments from this year’s participants:

“The entire program was so well thought out. I have had conference experiences not come close to the bar that was set this week. I can’t wait for next year!” 

- Kristina Gibbs, Market President, Planters First Bank

 “Debbie was great and inspires you to hold yourself accountable.”

-Jonathan Pope, Vice President, Exchange Bank

“Attending the CBA LEAD retreat was an incredible experience.  My deepest appreciation goes to the CBA staff and the LEAD board for crafting the LEAD retreat, a source of invaluable insights and actionable learning that will help us grow in our roles as bankers and leaders in our communities across the state.

But equally valuable are the connections and friendships that my wife and I have developed over the years within this CBA community that we cherish and look forward to at any of the retreats, meetings or conferences.  We are truly blessed to be a part of the CBA Family and that is what sets these events apart from others we attend.” 

- Jason Rooks, CLO, Flint Community Bank

“Everything was great! The food was amazing! I loved having everything in one location,” Sara Russell, Mortgage Originator, Bulloch First (A division of the Citizens Bank of Swainsboro) 

- Sara Russell, Mortgage Originator

 Bulloch First (A Division of the Citizens Bank of Swainsboro

"This marks my second memorable LEAD Retreat experience with the CBA of Georgia, and I eagerly anticipate next year. The LEAD Retreat has proven instrumental in fostering profound connections and relationships that facilitate individual growth and serve as a catalyst for our collective leadership development. While this event has undeniably contributed to my personal and professional development, its true essence lies in the enduring and authentic friendships I've forged, which have transcended mere connections to become profound and meaningful bonds. Thank you, CBA of Georgia, for everything you do!"

- Drew Kessler, SVP of Sales

Genesys Technology Group, LLC