Timothy M. Perry
President and Chief Executive officer
The Citizens Bank of Georgia
Forsyth Bancshares, Inc.
Cumming, GA
Group 9 Rep., GBA Board of Directors
Q: What was your first job, and was there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first job was working on the gas dock at Bald Ridge Marina on Lake Lanier in Cumming, GA, when I was 16. I was trying to earn enough money to buy a used car. After working there for a couple of years, I still had not saved enough for a decent vehicle. My father told me that because of my determination and commitment he would help me financially to buy the car and to always remember to work hard and good things will happen. I have found that to be so very true. Coincidentally, some of the “luckiest” people I know are the hardest workers.
Q: What drew you to banking and what has kept you there?
A: When I was a sophomore in college, I had the opportunity to work part-time at Forsyth County Bank, and in 1981 there were only two banks in the whole county. I worked in the night-time computer operations, bookkeeping and finally ran a teller window. I knew my first day there that I wanted to be a banker and I have never wavered since. The opportunity to financially assist customers with their commercial or personal needs as well as contribute to the community is such a rewarding job. Even during the difficulties of the “great recession,” I could not imagine doing anything else outside of banking.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish in your leadership on the GBA Board of Directors?
A: To continue to provide the level of premium services and product support that the Georgia banking community has come to expect from the GBA. We are fortunate to have one of the most respected and successful association CEO’s in the country with Joe Brannen.
Q: If you could thank someone for becoming a banker or person you are today, who would it be?
A: I have been blessed to have a father, Ralph Perry, that taught me a strong work ethic and to take ownership in whatever job I am charged with. Also, a man named Jim Fagan, who was a long-time banker in Forsyth County, took an interest in my career at a young age and provided me with opportunity, guidance and counsel. Finally, Citizens Bank Chairman Jimmy Myers has given much needed support in times of need over the past 21 years.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I am a certified barbeque judge with the Kansas City Barbeque Society.