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Blytheville, Ark. – Southern Bancorp Bank, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and one of America’s oldest and largest community development banks, has announced the promotion of Max Gurley to City President of its Blytheville market.
“Max’s deep roots in Blytheville and his dedication to serving the people and businesses of this community make him the ideal leader for our Blytheville market,” said Paul McAnally, Market President. “His leadership and passion for community development align perfectly with Southern Bancorp’s mission to be wealth builders for everyone.”
A lifelong Blytheville resident, Gurley brings more than a decade of experience in agriculture and financial services to his new role. He joined Southern Bancorp in 2017 as a Commercial Loan Officer and has since played a key role in growing the CDFI’s loan portfolio and supporting local economic development.
As Blytheville City President, Gurley will oversee all lending operations in Southern Bancorp’s Blytheville market.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gurley is an active member of his local community. He currently serves as Vice President of both the Blytheville Lions Club and Blytheville Unlimited, and sits on the Board of Directors at the Blytheville Country Club. He was recently honored with the Leader Dog Award at the annual Lions Club Awards Banquet.
“As a lifelong Blytheville resident, I’m incredibly honored to step into this new role,” said Gurley. “This community has given me so much over the years, and I’m excited for the opportunity to continue giving back and serving the people and place I love.”
Gurley holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and is also a two-time alumnus of the Paul W. Barret Jr. School of Banking, completing both its Commercial Lending Academy and Graduate Degree programs.
About Southern Bancorp
Founded in 1986 by some of the nation’s leading political, business, and philanthropic leaders with an initial investment of $10 million, Southern Bancorp, Inc., along with its development partners – Southern Bancorp Bank and Southern Bancorp Community Partners – has grown into a $2.8 billion asset organization with 56 locations serving 65,000 customers across two states. Southern Bancorp has a unique array of financial products and services designed to help individuals at all stages of life’s financial journey – from teaching kids how to save to helping entrepreneurs and families realize the American Dream. Southern Bancorp is a certified Community Development Financial Institution, certified B-Corp, and proud member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values. Learn more at www.BankSouthern.com and www.SouthernPartners.org.