Joe Collins
SVP, Capital Markets
SouthState Bank, Atlanta
Group 5 Rep., 2021-2022 GBA Asset/Liability Management Committee
Q: What was your first job, and was there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first job was working for my parents’ wholesale florist in Augusta. With it being a family-owned business, I quickly realized you needed to be detail-oriented, customer friendly and able to multi-task.
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: After I graduated from UGA with my bachelor’s degree in accounting, I moved to Atlanta and began working for the CPA firm Evans, Porter, Bryan & Co. One of the industries they specialized in was community banking. It was there that I came to appreciate the value and importance of banking. An opportunity came up with a client, Georgia Bankers Bank, and I made the transition in 1993. I began my career as the internal auditor and eventually moved into the capital markets division.
Q: What are you most proud of accomplishing professionally?
A: With my background in accounting and audits, some of my most gratifying moments have come from helping my clients tackle issues and requirements from a regulatory standpoint. The appreciation I receive from my customers, along with the satisfaction I get from assisting them, is very rewarding.
Q: If you could thank someone for becoming the professional you are today, who would it be and why?
A: There have been so many people that have been instrumental to my growth, and I am thankful for every one of them. My family has always been supportive of me throughout my life. From a banking standpoint, one person I would like to recognize is SouthState Bank Executive Vice President and Managing Director Brad Jones. I have had the pleasure of working with Brad for most of my career, and I have learned a lot from him. He epitomizes what our business is about – hard work, a willingness to help others and integrity.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A:I am actively involved in my community’s youth sports programs. I have three sons and have coached my fair share of baseball and football games. Even though my children have aged out of the local sports programs, I still volunteer in various capacities. I appreciate and understand the need for children to experience the structure and fun of team sports.