Lance Whitley
SVP, Chief People Officer
Colony Bank, Fitzgerald
Vice Chair, GBA Human Resources Committee
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: About 12 years ago, a friend and neighbor who knew I was an HR professional let me know about an HR opportunity at the bank where she was working at the time, HeritageBank of the South. While that bank is no longer around, I was very fortunate to connect and work with an awesome team that helped me learn so much about banking. I am fortunate to once again be on the same team with many of them at Colony Bank.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received from a mentor (or in the early/formative years of your career)?
A: As an HR professional, I was always focused on trying to avoid risk which could cause me to stop making progress. A wise banker and friend reminded me that we are in the business of risk and that all we can do is reduce the risk as much as possible so that we can continue to move forward.
Q: Tell us about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank.
A: Instead of one experience, I would say in general every day brings something new whether it is banking-related or something in HR. Whatever we are doing today, we should be prepared to change things up tomorrow. Whether it’s bank regs or labor laws, it doesn't matter; they will shift soon.
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
Q: Most used app?
A: Tripit (travel planning app)
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: The National Parks: America's Best Idea by Ken Burns
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I trekked to Mount Everest Base Camp in December 2022.