Adam M. Smith
Market President, Southwest Georgia
Truist Bank, Douglas, GA
Member, GBA Agriculture Committee
Published June 20, 2024
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: My banking career started out as an interim job. After recently receiving a graduate degree in economics, I coincidently dropped off my resume with some local business leaders that were also directors of the local bank, First National Bank of Coffee County. They called me and offered me a position while I was “job searching” positions outside of banking and ultimately chose to work there.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in the early/formative years of your career?
A: There are many! “Develop a sound plan, then all you have to do is follow it.” - Dale Morris, Retired Pres & CEO, Board Member. “Get involved and volunteer within your bank, your community, and your region.” - Garland Thompson, Banker/Economic Developer/GBA Ag Committee Member. “Real banking is done outside of the bank and the numbers.” - Gene Merritt, 30+ year banking career (1944-2021)
Q: Tell us about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank, such as a service story that really helped a customer or a quirky story.
A: When Hurricane Michael came through in 2018, the GBA Ag Committee was tasked with providing insight and recommendations for the federal indemnity program that needed revamping. Several of the thoughts that came out of that exercise were directly included in the legislation that allowed farmers and ranchers across the state to survive the aftermath.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: My grandfather was born on a Native American reservation in Arizona.
Q: First tap/click of the day?
A: Reuters/Wall Street Journal
Q: Podcast you recommend?
A: The Peter Attia Drive or Sounding off with Rick Beato
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: Principles, by Ray Dalio