Luke Lanier
AVP, Ag Lending Specialist
Metter Bank, a Division of Durden Banking Company
Chair, GBA Agriculture Committee
Q: Will you share a little insight with us about how you chose banking as a career
During college, I primarily worked for the U.S.D.A. and really enjoyed helping farmers. A few months before I graduated from the University of Georgia, Mr. G.W. Johnson called me to let me know he needed an ag lender at Durden Banking Company. I had no banking experience, but I was intrigued by the idea of working at a community bank and being able to help farmers. This opportunity also allowed me to move back near my hometown and live on the family farm. I have thoroughly enjoyed my almost 10 years at Durden Banking Company.
Q: What's your favorite part of any given day at the bank?
I enjoy problem solving and the flexibility bank management gives me as a loan officer to help meet our customers’ needs. Every customer has a different challenge or opportunity and I think this flexibility is vital to doing my job. I also enjoy my co-workers. We have a great staff!
Q: What do you enjoy most about working to help meet the needs of farmers and others involved in Georgia’s agriculture industry?
Agribusiness is Georgia’s top industry. However, 2015 and 2016 were very tough on farmers due to lack of rainfall, natural disasters and low commodity prices. This “perfect storm” has offered plenty of opportunities for our bank to step in and help our local farming community. I think it is important to utilize every tool available to keep our farmers and farm-related small businesses in operation.
Q: How have benefited from your participation on GBA Committees and at GBA Conferences such as the upcoming Rural Development & Lending program?
I have participated in the GBA Agriculture Committee since 2011. Other than on the job experience, this conference is the only ag-lending tool that I have been involved with since I started my banking career. I look forward to this conference and our committee meetings each year because I always learn something new. Whether it is in conversation with another ag banker during social time or from our legal updates during the sessions, there is always knowledge to be gained. I have also attended GBA’s Georgia Banking School, credit conference and multiple other educational seminars. I would highly recommend every banker take advantage of GBA’s educational and leadership programs.
Q: When you’re not on the job fulfilling your bank or GBA duties, what do you like to do?
At home I love to cook and work in my garden. I have always enjoyed cooking and having friends and family over. My garden is usually too big for my family, so I give most of the vegetables away. During the summer, I make pickles for my family to enjoy. I used to spend most of my spare time fishing, hunting, and playing golf. Now, most of my time is spent with my two-year-old son, Charlie, and wife, Susannah.