SmartBank has expanded into Georgia by opening of its first financial center in Columbus, marking the bank’s entry into the state and establishing a local team focused on commercial and private banking, relationship management and client service throughout west-central Georgia.

Led by Trevor Wiley, Columbus market president, the financial center provides
businesses, professionals and families with tailored financial solutions backed by local decision-making and relationship-based service.

Wiley brings more than 20 years of banking experience in the Columbus market, having served in commercial banking, credit analysis, loan examination and branch leadership roles throughout the region. He earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Columbus State University. During his career, Wiley helped launch a community bank charter in Columbus in 2014 and has developed extensive experience serving commercial real estate clients, hotel owner-operators and multifamily developers.

“We are excited to establish SmartBank’s presence in Georgia and continue investing in the west-central region,” said Billy Carroll, president and CEO of SmartBank. “Columbus is a dynamic market, and under Trevor’s leadership, this exceptional team positions us to deliver meaningful value and relationship-driven banking to the community."

The Columbus financial center expands access to local banking expertise and
strengthens SmartBank’s ability to serve growing businesses and individuals across the region.

“Building a successful presence in Georgia begins with trusted local leadership,” said Stacy Faison, area president. “Assembling a team with this level of market knowledge and proven dedication ensures our clients in Columbus receive exceptional service from day one.”

Joining Wiley is a team of experienced banking professionals with deep roots in the Columbus market:

• Jack Tinkler, corporate relationship manager, brings experience in commercial banking, business development and advisory services. A graduate of Columbus State University and former varsity student-athlete, he previously served on the Columbus Technical College Foundation Board.
• Wayne Griffin, corporate relationship manager, has more than 28 years of banking experience in commercial lending, deposit solutions, and cash management and merchant services. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Griffin has served Columbus-area businesses throughout his career and has served on the boards of the Columbus Technical College Foundation and the Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce.
• Yutaka Nakamura, private banker, brings 20 years of financial services experience helping clients and their families navigate financial needs. Through a personalized and holistic approach, he works with clients to help deliver banking and wealth solutions aligned with their goals and priorities. Nakamura is a licensed insurance and annuity agent and holds Series 7 and 66 licenses. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Columbus State University.
• Chas Hawthorne, financial center manager, brings nearly 20 years of banking and sales leadership experience. Prior to SmartBank, Hawthorne spent 18 years leading branch operations and sales performance across 75 locations in five states. A graduate of Troy University, he has also served as a House of Heroes team captain for 15 years, helping renovate homes for military veterans and their families.
• Mallory Kelley, assistant financial center manager, has more than a decade of banking experience specializing in branch operations, client service, risk management and team development. Prior to joining SmartBank, she served as a service manager overseeing teller operations and compliance while coaching staff and supporting business growth. She is also an active leader in military family support initiatives.
• Kayla Lamee, senior financial representative, brings more than 17 years of experience specializing in relationship building, consumer lending, account management and vault operations. Driven by a passion for helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals, she is known for making complex banking products accessible and tailored to clients’ needs. Lamee is also an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

“Community banking is built on relationships, trust and a genuine commitment to helping people succeed,” Trevor Wiley said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the Columbus market, support local businesses and families, and help clients achieve their financial goals for years to come.”

The new Columbus financial center reflects SmartBank’s relationship-first approach, combining local market knowledge with comprehensive financial resources to support clients across west-central Georgia.