Maury Beasley
President & CEO
The Bank of Soperton
Q: Can you share with us how you first got involved with the GBA?
My first experience with GBA dates back to 2012 when I attended the GBA Leadership Conference in St. Simons. These conferences allowed me, and I believe others, to network with the current and future bank leaders in our state.
Q: What do you wish the general public knew about being a banker?
Being a banker is so much more involved than just dealing with money on a daily basis. A “true” community banker is one who sacrifices service above self and understands the idea of being involved with community service activities and local civic clubs along with participation in other bank-related activities that support the communities we serve.
Q: If you were to tell one person "Thank you for helping me become the person I am today," who would it be and what did they do?
I’ve had two special women who have played a very important role in my upbringing and have ultimately made me the person I am today. Growing up my mom was, without a doubt, my biggest supporter and taught me among other things how to be considerate and respectful to others. Not a day goes by that I don’t try to lead by these examples that I learned at a very young age. The other person who continues to contribute to my success is my wife. She’s the rock of our family and the one person I can always count on to keep me grounded as I move forward in my career, and more importantly, as I continue to strive to be the father and husband God wants and expects me to be.
Q: When you think of the future of the banking industry in Georgia, what makes you concerned and what makes you hopeful?
One concern that I have for the banking industry in Georgia is the amount of mergers/acquisitions that are taking place. I think it’s important that, as bank’s consolidate, they remain vigilant to the communities they serve and not just look at the mergers as a profitability move. I’ve always been amazed with the amount of knowledge and talent that our current group of leaders provide to our banking industry. I’m hopeful and confident that we have the pieces in place to allow our industry to thrive for years to come.
Q: If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1?
I would eliminate small paper clips.