Blair Blackburn
Chief Financial Officer
AB&T, Albany, GA
South Group Rep., Leadership GBA Board of Directors
Published Oct. 10, 2024
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: I began my career in public accounting at Mauldin & Jenkins as a bank auditor, so the transition into banking was a natural progression in my career. I have always loved community banks, and the people within them. I love that this career affords me the opportunity to help those within our community flourish and meet both their personal and financial goals. The foundation of banking is relationships, and it is such an honor to form those relationships with our clients.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in the early/formative years of your career?
A: Early on in my career someone said to me “it’s not about what you know, it’s about what you do with it” and that has always stuck with me. Being the smartest person in the room doesn’t always get you where you want to go, but your personal grit and drive do. I think it’s important to have the self-awareness to recognize your own strengths and weaknesses, and surround yourself with people who complement those.
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: While outside the realm of the bank financials, I love to push our staff to find ways to truly serve our community. With that mindset at the forefront, I was able to get our team to rally around the idea of a community-based fall event called AB&Treats. For this event, we hosted a trunk or treat in the bank parking lot where kids could play games and get some free candy. I really believe it’s the little things like this that show our community we’re there for them.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I was originally a nursing major before changing my career path to accounting.
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
Q: Pet peeve?
A: People making excuses. Own your mistakes and “turn the page” – don’t dwell on them, but learn from them.
Q: Most used app?
A: Unfortunately, Instagram.