Citizens Trust Bank Bolsters SBA Lending and Commercial Banking in Georgia and Tennessee with Sherry L. Martin

Citizens Trust Bank, a leading financial institution committed to enhancing business support and community development, has appointed Sherry L. Martin as First Vice President and Senior SBA and Commercial Banking Team Leader for the Georgia and Tennessee markets. With over 20 years of experience in SBA lending and commercial banking, Martin brings a wealth of expertise to the role, aligning perfectly with the bank's mission to increase access to capital and empower customers for financial success.



Martin's appointment comes at a critical juncture for the bank, as it seeks to expand its SBA lending strategies and commercial banking operations in the targeted markets. Her extensive experience in supporting community banks, credit unions, and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in developing SBA lending programs will be invaluable in helping Citizens Trust Bank achieve its long-term strategic goals.

One of Martin's key initiatives will be to implement a more robust SBA program, creating greater market penetration and increasing the bank's presence in the SBA lending market. This will involve expanding SBA lending services and enhancing the bank's ability to support small businesses and communities in the Georgia and Tennessee markets.



Martin's experience in adapting lending practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly her role in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), will also be crucial in helping Citizens Trust Bank navigate the evolving needs of businesses in the targeted markets. Her leadership roles in industry organizations, such as the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (NAGGL) and the Georgia Lenders Quality Circle (GLQC), will enable her to stay informed about industry trends and best practices, further enhancing the bank's SBA lending strategies and commercial banking operations.

In addition to her expertise in SBA lending, Martin's background in commercial banking will help her manage and improve commercial banking operations within the Georgia and Tennessee markets. This may involve streamlining processes, enhancing customer service, and expanding commercial banking services to better meet the needs of businesses in the region.

Martin's appointment aligns with Citizens Trust Bank's mission to increase homeownership, entrepreneurship, and wealth-building participation among its customers and prospects. By expanding SBA lending and commercial banking services in the Georgia and Tennessee markets, the bank will be better equipped to support small businesses, foster economic growth, and empower individuals to achieve financial success.

In conclusion, Citizens Trust Bank's appointment of Sherry L. Martin as Senior SBA and GA/TN Commercial Team Leader is a strategic move that will strengthen the bank's SBA lending and commercial banking capabilities in the targeted markets. Martin's extensive experience and expertise in SBA lending and commercial banking will be invaluable in helping the bank achieve its long-term strategic goals and support the financial success of its customers and communities.