Ameris Bank Executive and Leadership Team

M. Shane Shook, the President (Douglas) at Ameris Bank, manages regional commercial banking activities and local client relationships. Overseeing the Douglas market, the President (Douglas) drives loan production and deposit growth by tailoring financial products to the specific needs of local businesses and retail customers. This leadership role requires deep integration with the broader Banking Division to ensure consistent service delivery and operational excellence. By fostering strong community ties, M. Shane Shook expands the market share of the bank within the Georgia region. The President (Douglas) also coordinates with regional leadership to implement corporate strategies that enhance profitability and customer satisfaction. Through active engagement with local stakeholders and business owners, the President (Douglas) identifies emerging opportunities for credit expansion and wealth management, ultimately strengthening the competitive position of the institution within the local economy.

Vicki Blum, the Senior Account Executive & President, Amba & Engaged Mortgage Professional at Ameris Bank, directs strategic initiatives within the Retail Mortgage Division. Overseeing mortgage lending operations, the Senior Account Executive & President, Amba & Engaged Mortgage Professional ensures that loan origination processes remain efficient and compliant with industry standards. This leadership role involves managing relationships with mortgage brokers and individual borrowers to drive volume across the Florida and Georgia markets. By optimizing the mortgage pipeline, Vicki Blum directly impacts the revenue generation of the Retail Mortgage Division. The Senior Account Executive & President, Amba & Engaged Mortgage Professional also collaborates with internal teams to refine product offerings, ensuring that mortgage solutions meet the evolving needs of homeowners. Through consistent focus on service quality and market penetration, the Senior Account Executive & President, Amba & Engaged Mortgage Professional secures a dominant position for the bank in the regional housing finance sector.

Brad Danowski, the Market President at Ameris Bank, manages commercial lending and business development initiatives across designated regional territories. Overseeing a portfolio of commercial clients, the Market President drives revenue growth by providing tailored credit solutions and treasury management services. This leadership role involves coordinating with the SBA Division to support small business expansion and economic development. By analyzing market trends and competitive dynamics, Brad Danowski identifies strategic opportunities to increase the bank's footprint in the Southeast. The Market President also mentors local banking teams to ensure high standards of customer service and operational efficiency. Through proactive outreach and relationship management, the Market President secures long-term partnerships with key business leaders. Ultimately, Brad Danowski ensures that the regional operations align with the overarching financial goals of the bank, contributing to the stability and profitability of the commercial banking segment.

James Rogers, the Market President at Ameris Bank, directs the execution of retail and commercial banking strategies within specific geographic markets. Overseeing the delivery of financial services, the Market President ensures that the bank maintains a strong presence in the competitive landscape of the Southeast. This leadership role involves managing the balance sheet for the local market, focusing on deposit growth and loan quality. By implementing corporate initiatives, James Rogers drives operational efficiency and enhances the customer experience across all branches. The Market President also collaborates with the Warehouse Lending Division to support broader institutional goals. Through strategic planning and effective team leadership, the Market President fosters a culture of performance and accountability. James Rogers ensures that all regional activities adhere to the core mission of providing accessible and reliable banking services, thereby supporting the long-term growth and financial health of the institution.

Robert Odom, the President Mortgage Banking Executive at Ameris Bank, architects the strategic direction of the mortgage banking business. Overseeing the entire mortgage lifecycle, the President Mortgage Banking Executive ensures that the Retail Mortgage Division maintains high standards of underwriting and customer service. This leadership role involves managing large-scale operations across the Southeast, focusing on volume growth and profitability. By integrating advanced technology into the lending process, Robert Odom improves efficiency and reduces turnaround times for borrowers. The President Mortgage Banking Executive also coordinates with the executive team to align mortgage strategies with the bank's overall capital allocation. Through rigorous performance monitoring and market analysis, the President Mortgage Banking Executive identifies new channels for loan production. Robert Odom ensures that the mortgage division remains a primary driver of revenue, supporting the bank's commitment to providing comprehensive financial solutions to retail customers.

John Krusoe, the President, Market Central Florida (West) at Ameris Bank, manages all banking operations within the Central Florida region. Overseeing the expansion of commercial and retail services, the President, Market Central Florida (West) drives market share growth through targeted business development and community engagement. This leadership role involves managing regional credit risk and ensuring that all lending activities meet the bank's quality standards. By analyzing the unique economic conditions of the Florida market, John Krusoe tailors financial products to support local business needs. The President, Market Central Florida (West) also collaborates with the SBA Division to facilitate small business financing. Through effective team management and strategic resource allocation, the President, Market Central Florida (West) ensures that the regional office contributes significantly to the overall profitability of the bank. John Krusoe maintains a focus on building lasting client relationships that drive long-term value for the institution.

Scott Cleveland, the Market President at Ameris Bank, directs the commercial banking strategy for key regional markets. Overseeing the development of complex credit facilities, the Market President ensures that the bank provides high-value financial solutions to corporate clients. This leadership role involves managing the regional sales force and driving deposit growth through strategic account management. By monitoring market conditions and competitive threats, Scott Cleveland adjusts regional tactics to maintain a strong market position. The Market President also works closely with the SBA Division to provide specialized financing options for small businesses. Through consistent focus on operational excellence and customer satisfaction, the Market President secures the loyalty of business clients. Scott Cleveland ensures that all regional activities support the broader mission of the bank, contributing to the overall financial strength and growth of the organization across the Southeast.

Lawton Bassett, the Bank President at Ameris Bank, directs the overall operational strategy and performance of the banking division. Overseeing the execution of corporate goals, the Bank President ensures that all segments, including retail and commercial banking, operate with maximum efficiency. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite executives to align business development with the bank's long-term vision. By fostering a culture of innovation and service, Lawton Bassett drives growth across the Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina markets. The Bank President also manages key stakeholder relationships and ensures that the institution remains responsive to the evolving needs of the financial sector. Through rigorous oversight of financial performance and risk management, the Bank President secures the stability of the organization. Lawton Bassett maintains a focus on delivering superior value to customers and shareholders, ensuring that the bank remains a leader in the regional financial landscape.

Joe Grass, the Market President at Ameris Bank, manages the delivery of comprehensive banking services within assigned regional territories. Overseeing the growth of the commercial loan portfolio, the Market President ensures that the bank provides effective financial solutions to local businesses. This leadership role involves managing regional operations and ensuring that all activities comply with corporate policies and regulatory requirements. By identifying opportunities for market expansion, Joe Grass drives deposit growth and enhances the bank's competitive position. The Market President also collaborates with the SBA Division to support small business development in the region. Through proactive relationship management and a focus on customer service, the Market President secures the trust of the local business community. Joe Grass ensures that regional operations remain aligned with the bank's mission, contributing to the overall success and financial health of the institution across the Southeast.

Jody Spencer, the Chief Legal Officer at Ameris Bank, directs all corporate governance and regulatory compliance frameworks. Managing complex legal risks, the Chief Legal Officer ensures adherence to federal and state banking statutes across the entire operational footprint. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to mitigate liability while supporting the expansion of the Banking Division. By overseeing internal audits and policy development, Jody Spencer maintains the integrity of financial transactions and protects the institution from litigation. The Chief Legal Officer also provides critical guidance on mergers and acquisitions, ensuring that all growth initiatives align with the long-term risk appetite of the organization. Through rigorous oversight of legal documentation and contractual obligations, the Chief Legal Officer secures the operational stability necessary for sustained market success in the competitive financial landscape of the Southeast.