Monty Lee
Senior Vice President
First Chatham Bank, Savannah, GA
South Group Rep., Leadership GBA Board of Directors
Published Jan. 2, 2025
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: I grew up in a small Georgia town and was able to witness the positive impact that local bankers had on our community. Additionally, my parents owned a small business, so I was able to experience first-hand the strong relationships that community bankers were able to build with their clients. A trusted banker became a friend and resource in times of need. This was very appealing to me.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received in your career?
A: I have been very fortunate to have worked with some strong mentors during my career. One piece of advice that I received from my first boss was “If you don’t like change, then this may be the wrong industry for you. Banking is always evolving, and you need to embrace that to be successful.”
Q: Can you share an experience that exemplifies being a banker?
A: Having been in the industry for quite some time, I have several stories which I feel exemplify being a banker. One that I will share is of a commercial banking relationship that I originated during the ‘Great Recession’. He was a no-nonsense man who was very skeptical of bankers (to say the least) and insisted on face-to-face conversations as opposed to phone calls. It was a difficult time in our industry, however we were able refinance a business property and help the customer acquire an adjoining property to expand operations. From this, we gained a long-term loyal and appreciative customer and friend. The customer is advanced in years now and has since sold the business and property; however, he calls at least once a month to ‘catch up’ and ask about my family.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I have several guitars and enjoy playing when I have the time. A closet rock star.
Q: First tap/click of the day.
A: John DeLoach’s UGA Update
Q: Book that you love/has made an impact?
A: C.S. Lewis – Mere Christianity
Q: Pet peeve?
A: Ha! Getting old!