Brannen Smith
Commercial Banker
Morris Bank, Statesboro, GA
Member, Georgia Banking School Board of Directors
Published Sept. 11, 2025
Q: What was your first job, and is there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: I was blessed with a father who instilled in me a strong work ethic so I had many jobs growing up but one lesson that has always carried with me is don’t waste time complaining about something that a little hard work can solve. And my mother always taught me to be kind to everyone because you never know what they are going through. I try to let these two lessons guide me each day.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received from a mentor?
A: A former manager once shared a perspective that has stayed with me: as long as I kept my “house in order”—meaning I had addressed all responsibilities requiring my attention—he would allow me the flexibility to manage my time as I saw fit. This resonated with me for two key reasons; 1) It underscored that it is my personal responsibility, and no one else’s, to honestly assess whether I have fulfilled all that needs to be done and 2) It highlighted the importance of giving people the opportunity to manage themselves, while also making it clear that support is available if and when they need it.
I believe this approach builds trust, empowers team members to take ownership, and creates an environment where bankers can grow both personally and professionally. As leaders, we must always be ready to step in with constructive guidance, when necessary, but just as importantly, we should give our teams the space to learn and develop through their own experiences.
Q: Tell us about one experience that exemplifies your role as a banker.
A: I recently had the opportunity to work with a local client who had long dreamed of starting her own business. After years of planning, she was finally ready to take that step. As with any new venture, there were challenges along the way, but I was able to guide and support her through the process. Today, she is successfully operating her own business and realizing a goal she had envisioned for years. Sitting with her at the closing table was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. It’s not simply about loan pipelines or margins—it’s about partnering with our clients and neighbors to strengthen our communities and help people achieve their dreams.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: One thing that may surprise people, is that I would much prefer to be at the shooting range than the golf course, which makes me a little bit of an anomaly in the banking world.
Q: Podcast you recommend?
A: I’m always up for a good Joe Rogan podcast as he has experts from so many different areas, you can always learn something new by listening.
Q: Book that made an impact?
A: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babon has by far made the most impact on my professional career.
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: Currently very much enjoying The Terminal List: Dark Wolf TV show.