Chad Hargrove
CFO/COO
Classic City Bank, Athens, GA
Vice Chair, GBA Asset/Liability Management Committee
Published Nov. 6, 2025
Q: What was your first job, and is there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first paid job was at 12 years old, cutting grass at Salem Methodist Campground. I was so light that I couldn’t keep the mower’s automatic shutoff engaged, so I improvised with bungee straps to hold the seat down—probably not OSHA-approved, but it got the job done! Later, I worked at a dry cleaner, where I learned how to interact with the public and even picked up some unexpected skills, like sewing buttons back onto dress shirts.
Those early jobs taught me creativity, a strong work ethic, and the importance of good customer service—lessons I still apply every day. And while I don’t sew on buttons at work, I’m still the only one in my house who knows how!
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received from a mentor?
A: I’ve been fortunate to have several positive mentors and role models throughout my career—many of whom are still in banking across the state. During my time at Liberty National Bank in the early 2000s, I had the opportunity to work with Dick Cheatham, an eccentric but highly respected banker who had a unique way of looking at the world. Among the many lessons he shared was what I still refer to as the “Cheatham Law”—his practical, straightforward approach to problem-solving and decision-making. His influence, along with that of other mentors, helped shape how I lead, work with customers, and stay grounded in the values of community banking.
Q: Tell us about one experience that exemplifies being a banker or your role at the bank.
A: Over the course of my career, I’ve collected quite a few quirky and memorable stories—many of which reflect the personal, hands-on nature of community banking. One of the earliest was in 2001, while working at my first bank, Georgia Central Bank. During a snowstorm, I delivered a cash order to a local grocery store to ensure they could keep their doors open and continue serving the community. The roads were barely passable, but the store was a vital resource—especially in severe weather. It was one of those “whatever it takes” moments that reminded me early on that being a community banker often means going well beyond the walls of the branch to take care of the people we serve.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: Something that often surprises people is that I was once featured on the cover of a magazine. It was part of a special feature recognizing accomplishments in the Georgia outdoors. It turned out to be a truly memorable experience.
Q: First tap/click of the day?
A: The first and second tap is usually the snooze button if I’m honest.
Q: Podcast you recommend?
A: The Leaders Notebook
Q: Most used app?
A: The Weather Channel