Matt Reed
Chief Financial Officer / Market President
Georgia Community Bank, Reynolds
Group 3 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 as an inventory control clerk at a frozen food plant in Cordele, Georgia. I learned there that regardless of the problem, if you had the right people, you could solve it. If you did not have the right people, it did not matter what the problem was, you were not going to solve it. Solve the people problem first.
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: I was actually hired as a staff appraiser back in 1991 due to FIRREA coming online. This led me to learn how to value things and that was certainly important in gauging what something was worth by how strong the market was for it.
Q: What are you most proud of accomplishing professionally?
A: I work in a small town. Small town banks are so important to general commerce. I am proud to facilitate the work and dreams of companies and individuals that make the world go ‘round.
Q: If you could thank someone for becoming the professional you are today, who would it be and why?
A: Many years ago, Don Davis of Cordele, Georgia, a former banker who was somewhat of a mentor, helped teach me the meaning of doing it the right way all the time and showed me the courage it takes to do so. Sometimes you will need to deliver bad news and sometimes you must be a mediator in certain situations. He did it well. It is an example I try to carry forward.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: Most people don’t believe that I am a hiker. While I haven’t done all of the Appalachian Trail, I’ve done all of the Georgia portion and am well into North Carolina sections now.