Charlie was born in Oneonta and has lived in Cullman since 2002. He started his 37-year banking career in Birmingham in 1984 after majoring in finance at Auburn University. Charlie joined Merchants Bank of Alabama, now a division of SouthPoint Bank, in 2001 and currently serves as Executive Vice President, North Alabama Market President, Senior Lending Officer.

Why is it important to have local lenders who can make local decision making?

We can make decisions faster, we can meet directly with the borrowers, and we can be more flexible. At the end of the day, we like to have satisfied customers. Customers love quick, innovative, flexible answers to their lending and deposit needs from decision makers that live in the same town, understand the area they lend in and know the people.

What matters to you?

We strive every day to give the best local service possible. I am accessible day and night. All of my existing customers have my cell phone (it’s printed on my business card) and now many of them call, text or email me directly. I try to make myself as available as possible and I prefer visiting them as opposed to making them come to me. Open communication is essential.

To you, what is The Merchants Way?

I think our lending team is one of the most experienced staffs in Cullman County. If we receive a loan request that doesn’t exactly fit our guidelines, we will work as hard as possible to find a middle ground that will satisfy and benefit both parties. We then strive to provide better service than they would receive anywhere else.

What do you like most about your job?

I consider the people I work with to be family. I love them and enjoy being around them. Secondly, I enjoy being a part of someone’s successful business, new home, major purchase, etc.

How are you active in the community?

I currently serve on the local boards of the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and North East Alabama Division of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I am a member of Grace Chapel Community Church and the Cullman Rotary Club.

What do you do in your spare time?

I play golf and try to fit in enough exercise to stay in shape. Now that we are relatively empty nesters, Susan and I hope to take more “day trips”.