Since River Bank & Trust first opened its doors in Montgomery almost 17 years ago, Jimmy Stubbs has been at the helm as CEO, leading the financial institution to expand beyond the River Region and enjoy growth into every part of the state.
Today, Jimmy Stubbs is still overseeing management, developing new relationships, recruiting talent and removing barriers to continued success. He’s also got his finger on the pulse of the wider financial world. Here, he’s shared some banking insights and some sage business advice, plus a surprising dream dinner date.
How long have you been with River Bank and how long in your current position as CEO?
Since our doors opened in April of 2006.
What’s the No. 1 challenge River Bank faced last year, and how did you and your team deal with it?
The Federal Reserve’s decision to rapidly raise the short-term interest rate 450 basis points. We’re still dealing with it by empowering our team with the knowledge and tools to compete.
What’s trending in the banking industry nationally?
Cybersecurity: making sure our customers’ account information and deposit balances are safe and secure.
In your opinion, is there anything that should change in the banking industry overall so it can better serve its customers?
Regulatory reform. There are way too many rules and regulations that take away from our ability to best serve the customer’s financial needs.
What’s trending in banking in our area?
Unfortunately, it’s a negative trend: rampant check fraud.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Helping others succeed. Whether it’s helping customers reach their financial goals or assisting our team members in preserving and improving the River Bank culture our customers enjoy.
If you had to sum up the secret behind River Bank’s success, what would it be?
We take care of the team, and the team will take care of the shareholder, customers and the communities we serve.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever gotten?
It’s never as bad as you think it is! And, it’s never as good as you think it is!
If you could give a small business owner only one piece of banking advice, what would it be?
Find a good banker, attorney and accountant.
\”We take care of the team, and the team will take care of the shareholder, customers and the communities we serve.\”
– Jimmy Stubbs
Personal Matters
Proudest accomplishment:
For 16-plus years, River Bank & Trust has assisted thousands of individuals, businesses and the communities we serve, helping them grow and prosper.
CentrAL proud:
It’s home. And home has provided me a wonderful place to live, work and play.
Recent read:
“The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be ?
Nick Saban. Though I’m an Auburn grad, Coach Saban builds championship football teams through what he calls “a process.” That process also applies to the business world. Hearing his thoughts on that process over dinner would be very interesting and quite memorable, I’m sure. Especially for an Auburn guy!
Your Motto:
There are actually two: 1) I ain’t scared! 2) The little things matter.
What are your hobbies?
Spending time on the family farm, hunting, fishing and morning runs.
