Palmer Proctor
President, Fidelity Bank, Atlanta
GBA Vice Chairman
Why do you like being a career banker?
To me, it is rewarding to be a part of the community banking industry; one of the most important sectors of our economy. Community banks play an important role in keeping local economies vital and growing. Having local knowledge of the needs of customers and the communities we serve is impactful. That direct impact may appear to be local, but when combined with the same effects from thousands of other community banks throughout the United States, you see how local decisions can really make a huge difference for the broader national economy.
What’s a work or life lesson you learned early on that you still use today?
Enjoy what you do. Surround yourself with good people and value those people.
The most misunderstood thing about banking or bankers is…
The mythical "banker's hours" haven't existed for a long time. Everyone in the industry works hard every day; sometimes long after 5 p.m. and on weekends.
How does involvement in GBA help you and your bank?
For me, GBA's vision statement gets it right: GBA is the primary outside resource for all member banks in accomplishing their goals and objectives. Particularly important to me are the opportunities to be around other bankers from across the state, listening to their experiences and sharing their insights.
When you are not at work, what do you like to do most?
I enjoy spending time with my family.