AB&T - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Owner / COO Sunnyland Farms, Inc. C2 Communications and Willson Property Holdings
A native of Albany, with deep generational roots in the community, Alex is a graduated from Albany's Deerfield-Windsor School, before attending the University of Georgia where he studied Political Science. After working as a Stock Plan Administrator with UBS Financial, Alex returned to school earning an MBA from Belmont University. Alex returned to his home town in 2015 to start a family and become the third generation to help guide the fortunes of family-owned Sunnyland Farms, a confectionary business located in Dougherty County.
In addition to helping modernize Sunnyland's processes for greater efficiency, Alex is heavily involved with various professional, community and civic organizations, including past service on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Albany and currently serving as Treasurer of the National Pecan Shellers Assoc. Alex is also the current PTO President of Lake Park Elementary School and serves on the Board of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Thanks to his solid business acumen, solid grasp of agribusiness and his extensive roots in the Albany community, Alex is an ideal leader to help guide AB&T and the Albany area community into the future and ensure the bank consistently delivers on its mission of being Albany premier bank.
Job Titles:
- Secretary / Treasurer, Artesian Contracting Co., Inc
A graduate of Sherwood Christian Academy, Jake Barrow earned a degree in civil engineering from Auburn University before returning to his hometown to start his career. He is co-founder and Secretary/ Treasurer of Artesian Contracting Co., Inc, a general contracting firm with expertise in commercial, industrial and retail construction. Jake is responsible for estimating, project management and day-to-day operation of the business, which has a niche in the highly regulated world of federal government construction contracting.
Job Titles:
- Chief Financial Officer
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Senior Vice President
A Certified Public Accountant with a passion for the gold standard of community banking, Blair brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as AB&T's Chief Financial Officer. Having spent five years with Albany-based accounting firm Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, working primarily in bank audits, and then two years with a family-run agricultural equipment business, Blair saw firsthand the important impact sound, relationship banking can provide clients, businesses and the community.
As CFO Blair expertly blends her deep understanding of financial principles with relevant and emerging industry trends to prepare and interpret financial analysis for management, directors, shareholders and regulatory agencies. Blair also advises the Board of Directors and executive management about capital planning, budgeting, asset and liability management, and liquidity forecasting.
A native of Macon, Blair attended First Presbyterian Day School in her hometown before studying at Middle Georgia State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor's in Business Accounting. Blair and her husband Ty, whom she met in college, relocated to South Georgia in 2015 and have since welcomed two daughters. Blair and her family are very involved at Albany's First United Methodist Church and she is also active as a PA volunteer at Deerfield-Windsor School.
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Senior Vice President, Branch Banking and Brand Execution
As Senior Vice President of Branch Banking and Brand Execution, Brad oversees AB&T's branch operations, branch sales, and associate training. Additionally, Brad is responsible for collaboratively guiding the strategy and execution of the bank's branding and marketing to bolster AB&T's connection to its clients and community. With more than 16 years experience working in different areas of banking, Brad has a keen understanding of the local market and what it takes to provide an exceptional client experience through relationship banking and customized solutions.
A long-time resident of Albany, Brad attended Westover High School before earning an Associate of Arts in English from Darton State College, and Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and Religion from the University of Georgia. Brad is a 2010 graduate of Leadership Albany and is very active in the community, volunteering with several civic and professional organizations, as well as having served on the board of directors of Leadership Albany and the Anchorage faith-based recovery center.
Job Titles:
- Bank Officer, Audit Coordinator
As the Bank's Audit Coordinator, AB&T's Charlene Parker utilizes her more than 20 years of banking experience, across a variety of areas including retail, deposit operations, loan operations and more, to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and organizational policies, through synchronization with auditors, bankers and stakeholders. Charlene's keen attention to detail, excellent organizational skills and commitment to excellence in execution, are vital to the ongoing success of AB&T and its clients.
A nearly life-long resident of Georgia, Charlene is a graduate of Albany's Byne Christian School, and earned her Associate degree from Darton State College and a Bachelor in Finance from Valdosta State University. Additionally, she is a graduate of the American Bankers Association's Compliance School. A devoted wife and mother of two, Charlene devotes considerable time to family and to supporting local schools, such as St. Teresa's and the Dougherty County School System.
Job Titles:
- Chief Operations Officer
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Senior Vice President
Dana started her banking career in 1990 and brings extensive experience and expertise to the management of the bank's Operations, Compliance, and Information Technology centers. Dana has honed her skills in a range of key responsibilities, utilizing her meticulous attention to detail, innovative ideas, and technological solutions to benefit both clients and associates.
Throughout her career, Dana has been actively engaged in various professional organizations, including her active service on the Jack Henry Southern Region User Board of Directors, and as member of the Georgia Banker's Association's Operations and Technology Committee, of which she has also served as Past Chair.
In addition to her professional achievements, Dana is deeply committed to the Albany community. She proudly serves on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Albany, actively contributing to the betterment of local youth. Dana's dedication to leadership and professional growth is evident through her participation in the inaugural class of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Institute for Leadership Development. Dana continues to make a meaningful impact on the banking industry and her local community, driven by her passion for excellence, community engagement, and mentoring of others.
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Assistant Vice President, BSA Officer
As BSA Officer at AB&T, a community bank that delivers Gold Standard community banking, Daniela leads the bank's Bank Secrecy Act and Anti-Money Laundering programs, ensuring compliance with all regulations and working with law enforcement to protect the bank's clients and communities. Daniela's passion for helping and safeguarding others, makes her a vital asset to the bank and the greater community.
Daniela holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Law Enforcement from Albany Technical College, a Law Enforcement Specialist Certificate from Albany Tech, and a Certified At-Risk Adult Crimes Tactics Specialist certification from the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services. She is also a graduate of the Georgia Bankers Association Compliance School, and a 2022 graduate of Leadership Albany.
Job Titles:
- Leader
- Director of Facilities Management and Grounds, City of Albany
A native of Houston, TX, who came to Albany during his 26-year career in the United States Marine Corps, Donald "Don" Gray holds a BA in Communications from Prairie View A&M University, a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the U.S Army War College, as well as several other military-related certificates. Following his time in the USMC, Don served as Program Manager for national defense contractor KBRwyle (formerly Honeywell), before retiring and taking his current role with the city;
A firm believer in supporting community, Don is also very active in the local community, serving on numerous civic and professional boards. Currently, Don serves on the Board of the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy and is Chair Elect of the board of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, where he also serves on the Finance, Education and Economic Mobility committees, and is Co-Chair of the Military Affairs Committee.
A native of Albany, Faison Middleton attended Westover High School and Emory University before graduating Georgia State University College of Law, cum laude. Currently, Faison serves as managing partner of Watson Spence, LLP, a law firm that provides a broad range of legal services to its clients throughout Georgia and across the country.
Since returning to his hometown, Faison has taken on numerous leadership roles in the community and statewide. Faison has served on numerous Boards, including Leadership Georgia, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, the Albany Museum of Art and First Tee Albany. Fasion was founding President and Board Member of the Lily Pad, a center committed to the needs of victims of sexual violence and child abuse. He has passionately supported the Flint RiverQuarium and currently serves on the Executive Committee. Appointed by the Governor, Faison also serves on the Georgia Student Finance Commission.
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Senior Vice President, Private Banking
Gayle has over 25 years of banking experience, beginning her career as a Management Trainee in 1997, before advancing to her current position of Senior Vice President, Commercial Lending and Private Banking at AB&T. She fully embraces the client relationship aspects of community banking and consistently provides exemplary service to her clients through sound advice and industry knowledge.
Gayle is a graduate of Georgia Southern University where she majored in finance with an emphasis on banking. Currently, Gayle is entering her senior year at The Graduate School of Banking at LSU. She is a past president of the Dougherty County Rotary Club and is a 2015 recipient of the distinguished Sheffield Award for Outstanding Leadership.
A native of Southwest Georgia, Gayle's commitment to the community is reflected by her involvement with several civic and community organizations, including the American Heart Association, Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, Chehaw Park Authority and Leadership Albany. Gayle volunteers her time with the Helping Hands Ending Hunger initiative with the Dougherty County School System, she is a mentor with the Propel+ youth professional development program facilitated through the Albany Area Chamber Foundation and currently serves on the Albany/Lee Board for Young Life.
Job Titles:
- Vice President, Adams Exterminators, Inc
A native Albanian, Bridges Sinyard graduated Deerfield Windsor School and attended the University of Georgia where he earned dual degrees: Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Insurance.
After graduating college, Bridges served for two years on the staff of Senator Saxby Chambless in Washington, D.C. While on Senator Chambless' staff, Bridges was responsible for agriculture and transportation policy, two critically important issues for Albany and South Georgia. His expertise and contacts in those areas continue to serve the bank and the community well.
Since returning home to join the family business, Bridges has been active with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, where he is a member of the Executive Committee and is the Vice Chairman of Leadership Development. Bridges believes that local businesses, like local banks, should be active in the communities they serve.
Job Titles:
- President and CEO, Phoebe Putney Health System
A native of St. Louis, MO, Scott Steiner attended Missouri State University where he earned a BS in Management, before earning a Masters of Business Administration with an emphasis in Health Services. Scott took the reins at Phoebe in 2019, following successful tenures as CEO of MacNeal Hospital in Chicago and as CEO of Detroit Medical Center.
In addition to his vast experience in medicine and health care, Scott is an active public servant with a long track record of community and civic involvement. Scott has continued that facet of his life since coming to Albany and is currently active with several civic and professional organizations including Rotary Club of Albany, and the Georgia Hospital Association, where he sits on the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors. Scott has also served on the board of the Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals, the Georgia Board of Governors, the Chehaw Park Authority and is very active with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, where he serves on the Foundation Board and Government Affairs Committee.
Job Titles:
- Operations Manager, ACC Distributors, Inc
A native of Lee County and a graduate of Lee County High School, Jack Posey attended Florida State University before returning to his home community to join his family's food distribution business and start a young family of his own. In his role with ACC, Jack is responsible for the company's logistics and is involved with all management decisions concerning present and future operations Additionally, he manages a staff over more than 50 employees and handles the purchasing and management of the company's vehicle fleet.
Jack's understanding of business and of the many forces impacting the Lee County community he cherishes, give him important perspective and make his an invaluable voice on the bank's board of directors as it strives to further AB&T's commitment to the community.
Job Titles:
- Partner, Oakland Partners
A native of Albany and graduate of Westover High School, Jim Bacon attended the University of Georgia where he received a bachelor's degree in accounting. He is a certified public accountant (CPA) and has previously worked in corporate accounting and sales/marketing positions throughout the United States and overseas.
He is a member of the Rotary Club of Dougherty County and Warwick United Methodist Church, where he serves as coordinator for "Outdoor Boat Church."
Job Titles:
- Chairman Community Capital Bancshares, Inc. and AB & T
Luke Flatt has built a 40-year career solely devoted to his passion for community banking. An optimist, visionary and achiever, Luke leads with the idea that a financial institution should have no greater concern than the growth, prosperity, diversity and quality of life of the communities it serves. With that strategic vision, he is out to ensure that AB&T is the gold standard in community banking.
Outside the bank's doors, Luke has long been an active member of the community, serving in leadership roles for the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Dougherty County Rotary Club, the Darton College Foundation, Leadership Albany, Leadership Georgia, Consumer Credit Counseling Service, and Imagine Albany. He also currently serves as the Chairman of the Georgia Bankers Association. Additionally, Luke has received numerous honors for his service, including Leadership Albany's prestigious "Ed Freeman Award" in recognition of his civic contribution to our community and the 2017 Lifetime Service Award from the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.
Luke holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Auburn University and is also a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers University where he was elected class president by the 200-plus bankers and bank regulators in his class.
Job Titles:
- President, DJ 's II Car Wash, Inc
Jeff Wiggins is a native Albanian and graduate of Albany High School. He studied small business management at Georgia Southern University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. As president of DJ's II Car Wash, Inc., Jeff is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the highly successful second-generation, local family business. Along with his brother Colby, Jeff is also part owner and operator of 10 Oasis Express Washes in Georgia and North Florida. Additionally, Jeff is a partner in property investment group, Artesian Holdings, LLC, and an active member of First United Methodist Church.
The wealth of customer experience and common sense that comes from his hands-on approach to business makes Jeff a valued member of the AB&T board that is committed to providing the gold standard of customer service to its clients and community.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer, Bishop Clean Care, Inc
Jenny Savelle is CEO of Bishop Clean Care, Inc. which provides residential and commercial cleaning and restoration services. Jenny attended Georgia Tech where she earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Industrial and Systems Engineering. Since moving to Albany, Jenny has become very active in the community. She has served in various capactities with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, including serving as the 2017 chairwoman. She is also Treasurer of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission.
Originally from Beijing, China, Jenny brings a global perspective into the board room. Her broad cultural experience, and her passion for excellence and her entrepreneurial spirit, reinforces AB&T's commitment to providing the gold standard experience to a diverse community.
Job Titles:
- Chief Credit Officer
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Senior Vice President
Since beginning his banking career more than 18 years ago, Joe has distinguished himself as one of Southwest Georgia's most well-respected bankers. With a background in accounting, and experience in both commercial and commercial real estate lending, Joe's background and expertise are invaluable. He understands the important role that banks play in the community and he is committed to building an organization that offers guidance and support and that displays the gold standard in community banking.
A native of South Georgia, who grew up in nearby Edison, Joe attended Calhoun County High School before graduating in 1996 from Auburn University with a degree in Finance.
Joe has served multiple terms on the Georgia Banker's Association's Credit Committee and remains active in his local community, having served on the boards of multiple civic and professional organizations. He and his family are active members of First Baptist Albany. Joe is also a 2014 graduate of Leadership Albany.
Job Titles:
- Vice President and Project Manager, LRA Constructors, Inc
A native of Albany, Jake Reese graduated Deerfield Windsor School. Following the path of his father and grandfather, Jake attended Georgia Tech where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Building Construction. Upon returning to Albany, Jake joined LRA Constructors, Inc., a well-known and highly regarded general contracting firm, as Project Manager. He was later promoted to Vice President, with responsibility for marketing, design build and construction management.
A third generation Albanian, Jake is proud to be a part of a bank that embraces local decision-making designed to strengthen its community. He shares AB&T's commitment of community involvement and providing gold standard service to its clients.
Job Titles:
- Superior Court Judge, Dougherty County Judicial Circuit
A native of Chesterfield, S.C., Judge Victoria S. Darrisaw has been working in the Dougherty County Judicial Circuit for more than 20 years, first as an Assistant District Attorney, before becoming Magistrate Court Judge. Following her time as Magistrate, Judge Darrisaw served as State Court Judge in the circuit before being named to the Superior Court in 2018. Judge Darrisaw holds a BA in Political Science from Spelman College, where she graduated cum laude. She received her JD from the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University.
With a strong belief in community, Judge Darrisaw is also very active in the Albany area community, serving on several civic and professional boards, including the Albany Rotary Club, Junior League, Boys and Girls Clubs of Albany, Inc. and more. She is also a 2009 graduate of Leadership Albany and a 2013 graduate of Leadership Georgia. Her keen attention to detail and undying dedication to improving lives, makes her an ideal leader to help AB&T achieve its goal of setting the Gold Standard in Community Banking.
Job Titles:
- Owner, Jones Bros. Farms / Co - Owner, Jones - West Farms, LLC
Justin Jones graduated Albany High School before attending the University of Georgia where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. As owner of Jones Bros. Farms, Justin is engage in row crop farming including cotton, corn and peanuts. Additionally he is co-owner of Jones-West Farms, LLC., which specializes in tree nuts. Justin is also involved in various other business ventures.
With his background and education, Justin has a keen understanding of the complexities and nuances of farming and brings insight and perspective to the all-encompassing impact of agri-business on the local economy.
Job Titles:
- Owner of Jones Farms of Warwick, Inc
- Owner, Jones Farms of Warwick, Inc. Co - Owner, Doles Peanut Co
A native of Warwick, Laurence "Kirk" Jones attended Crisp Academy before earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Georgia. After graduation, Kirk returned to South Georgia where he has established himself as a successful farmer and businessman.
As owner of Jones Farms of Warwick, Inc., Kirk focuses primarily on row crops with a concentration on growing cotton. Kirk has also seen success as co-owner of Doles Peanut Company and as a principal partner with Doles Grain, LLC. Additionally Kirk is active in his community and is a member of Porterfield Memorial United Methodist Church.
Job Titles:
- Bank Officer, Mortgage Originator
Since starting her banking career over a decade ago, Maggie has developed an impressive reputation for connecting with clients, truly understanding their needs and then finding solutions to enhance their lives. Maggie has been with AB&T since 2015, first serving as Customer Service Representative and Workplace Banker, before transiting into her current role as Bank Officer and Mortgage Originator. Maggie actively manages a robust commercial and consumer portfolio, while also handling AB&T's traditional mortgage generation. No matter the need, Maggie relishes any opportunity she has to take care of clients and community, and consistently delievers Gold Standard service at every turn.
A native of Albany, Maggie is a graduate of Westover Comprehensive High School, and has a deep love and affection for the Southwest Georgia community. Maggie is active throughout the Dougherty and Lee County communities, consistently seking ways to have a positive impact. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Lee County Family Connection.
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- President
- President, Chief Lending Officer
Since beginning his banking career in 2002 Matt has distinguished himself as one of the area's premier commercial relationship managers, handling a book of business in excess of $100 million. Through his proven talent, professionalism and his ability to understand the financing and cash management needs of a broad range of business operations, Matt has become a trusted advisor for countless clients.
By giving his clients customized solutions, quick decisions and incomparable service, he is committed to providing gold standard service to businesses of all types throughout Southwest Georgia.
An Albany native, Matt attended Albany High School before studying at the University of Georgia, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics. He is also a recent graduate of the Georgia Academy of Economic Development.
Matt remains very active in the community, serving on the Board of Trustees for Deerfield Windsor School, the Phoebe Foundation board, and on the Finance Committee for First United Methodist Church. Additionally, he is a volunteer for the Flint RiverQuarium and Chehaw park. An avid outdoorsman, Matt is very active in both the planning and the presentation of the annual Georgia Quail Hunt hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Allies. Matt has also been recognized by the Albany Herald as one of their "40 Under 40."
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
Perry Revell has built a reputation for developing commercial relationships and is known for serving as a resource to his clients. As a champion of intentional relationships built on mutual trust and enduring commitment, his leadership guides AB&T's vision of becoming the gold standard of community banking.
Born and raised in Albany, Perry attended Deerfield-Windsor School before pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Georgia. He furthered his education by graduating from the Georgia Academy of Economic Development and the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.
Beyond the bank, Perry is deeply involved in his local community. He has served on the boards of various civic organizations and non-profits, such as the United Way, the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, the Payroll Development Authority, and Albany League Baseball, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact. Perry served as Chairman of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce in 2020 and 2023.
Perry began his banking career in 2006 as a Credit Portfolio Manager and since that time, has established a reputation for developing commercial relationships and providing exceptional client service. He has a passion for taking care of his clients. His background and experience fit perfectly with AB&T's vision of becoming the gold standard of commerical banking throughout South Georgia.
An Albany native, Perry attended Deerfield-Windsor School and later went on to the University of Georgia, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. He is also a graduate of the Georgia Academy of Economic Development and is a 2019 graduate of the School of Banking at Louisiana State University.
Perry is very active in his home community, serving on the boards of several civic organizations and non-profits, including holding the role of Chairman of the United Way South Georgia in 2013. Perry currently serves on the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Board, where he served as Chair in 2020, the Executive Committee and the Finance Committee and serves as a member of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission Board. He is also a graduate of Leadership Albany and has been recognized by The Albany Herald as one of its "40 Under 40."
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Network Administrator
- Security Officer
As Network Administrator and Physical Security Officer at AB&T, Bert has over 20 years with the bank, and has witnessed and contributed to its growth and transformation. He is responsible for managing and maintaining the bank's computer systems, networks, and physical facilities. He also ensures that the bank's digital and physical assets are protected from any threats or risks.
Job Titles:
- Controller
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Vice President
As Vice President and Controller, Stan is involved in financial and regulatory reporting and analysis that is vital to the success of the bank. With more than 38 years of experience in banking and accounting, Stan understands that details matter.
A resident of the Albany area for over 60 years, Stan graduated from Westover High School and later received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Valdosta State University. He is a graduate of the Bank Administration Institute Graduate Schools of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and through BAI, he earned a Certified Bank Auditor certificate. After beginning his career in public accounting, Stan later joined the banking arena and worked several years for two regional banks before coming to AB&T in 2002.
Stan is involved as a volunteer helping the bank serve as a Partner in Excellence with Alice Coachman Elementary School. He is active in his church and has served as Stewardship Team Chairman and usher. He serves on the Byne Christian School Board of Directors and as golf team coach for Byne Christian School.
Job Titles:
- Member of the AB & T Officers Team
- Vice President, Community Banker
With over 30 years in banking, working in a variety of positions, Terri Christian brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as Vice President and Community Banker at AB&T, where she manages a consumer portfolio, as well as managing AB&T's Workplace Banking programs. Additionally, Terri serves as an ambassador of the bank in the community, regularly attending professional and civic gatherings to interact and educate residents about banking services, and the commitment AB&T has to the local community.
A native of Elmodel, and resident of Albany for over 40 years, Terri has a strong sense of community and a deep affection for Southwest Georgia and its residents. Throughout her career, Terri has been involved in several professional and civic organizations and initiatives, and currently serves as a volunteer for Helping Hands Ending Hunger, and serves on the Board of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Albany Class of 2018.
Job Titles:
- Founding Member of the AB & T Board