SMARTBANK ANNOUNCES A KEY LEADERSHIP ADDITION TO ITS ALABAMA MARKETS WITH CAPABILITIES IN WEST GEORGIA

Montgomery, AL / Auburn, AL / Columbus, GA - SmartBank continues to grow its banking teams throughout Alabama, announcing the addition of Stacy Faison as Area President for markets in central and east Alabama, basing out of the bank's Auburn office. Stacy is a 27-year veteran in the banking industry, primarily serving in the Auburn, Alabama and Columbus, Georgia markets, managing commercial and private banking across much of Alabama and Georgia. He received both his BBA in Accounting and MBA in Business from Troy University, where he was named Distinguished National Alumni of the Year in 2007. In addition, he is a graduate of Georgia Bankers Association & University of Georgia's Terry College of Business banking school and Alabama Banker's Association's bank executive leadership program. The majority of Stacy's career was spent in various commercial and private banking leadership roles at Columbus Bank & Trust (Synovus Bank), Troy Bank & Trust, and Bank of America.

Stacy joins the high performing teams at SmartBank with an exceptional background in commercial banking, treasury management, and wealth management. Stacy has superb experience working with the largest and most sought-after commercial, non-profit, and government entities throughout Alabama and Georgia.

Stacy has a passion for giving back to the community, which he intends to continue in his new role. He currently serves on the Sorrell College of Business Executive Advisory Council at Troy University and has served in this role over 15-years. His past involvement as Chairman for Piedmont Columbus Regional Healthcare Foundation and as a Board Member for Alabama Trust Fund, Auburn Chamber of Commerce, and Troy University Athletic Hall of Fame are just a few examples of his passion for the community.

"Stacy is a key and vital addition to the bank's senior leadership as he has the experience to build strong & motivated teams to be able to go above our clients' expectations and rapidly grow in the bank's key markets from Montgomery to West Georgia," said Jeff Williams, SmartBank Regional President.

About SmartBank

Founded in 2007, SmartBank is a full-service commercial bank providing banking, investment, insurance, and mortgage financial services, with 42 branches spanning Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida. Recruiting the best people, delivering exceptional client service, strategic branching and a disciplined approach to lending have contributed to SmartBank's success. For more information on SmartBank, visit www.smartbank.com.