Mike Allen
EVP, Director of Real Estate Credit Risk
Cadence Bank
Gainesville, GA
At Large Rep., GBA Credit Committee
Q: What was your first job, and was there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first work experience was on my late grandfather’s dairy farm. Growing up in rural middle Georgia on a dairy farm cemented a good work ethic, responsibility and commitment in me at an early age.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your career journey.
A: My initial job upon graduation from college was with an agro-products company that I had interned with as a student. Only two weeks after graduation and two months after my wedding, I was offered a position with this company in Tampa, FL. My wife and I were newlyweds, and four days after moving into our apartment in Tampa, the company announced it was closing that facility. This was a shocking development, and as you can imagine, it left me and the new wife reeling from the news. After a few short months in that awful environment, we returned to Macon and found jobs to start anew. My opportunity was with Trust Company on a training program and the rest is history.
Q: What fuels your passion for educating other bankers?
A: I simply love to teach and share my experiences with other bankers. I like to think that I am giving back to the industry by helping others learn and develop their skills. It is also great fun for me to meet other bankers around our state. One of the highest compliments I can get is for someone who has taken one of my seminars sign up for others.
Q: If you had to choose another career, what would it be?
A: Either a professional golfer or NASCAR driver.
Q: What would someone be surprised to know about you?
A: I have been fortunate to have visited almost two dozen foreign countries. I love to travel.