Feature Article / Business Section / Morning News By Andy Cole, Senior Writer
December 20, 2003 (Florence, SC) – A Florence bank which opened for business just four years ago is branching out to include other markets.
First Reliance Bank has received regulatory approval to proceed with plans to expand into the Lexington market. First Reliance will soon open a new branch in Lexington, which will be led by Richard N. McIntyre.
“Opening a new branch in Lexington is a major step forward for our organization as we pursue our vision of becoming the largest and most profitable bank in South Carolina,” said Rick Saunders, president and chief executive officer of First Reliance.
“It’s very significant because it begins our expansion plans into other markets outside of Florence. The success of this expansion is critical to our long-term strategies.”
The bank estimates the expansion into Lexington will take several months and has appointed business banker Ricky Cox to lead an internal implementation team. The team of bank employees will handle all the infrastructure design and procedural details that need to be instituted for an opening. McIntyre will operate as the bank’s market president and will report directly to Tom Ewart, the banks Chief Credit Officer. Initially, McIntyre will be responsible for preparing the new branch location, conducting associate interviews and cultivating relationships within the community to ensure a successful grand opening. “Expanding into the Lexington market is a key move for our organization,” said Jeff Paolucci, senior vice president and chief financial officer. “Our expansion strategy is very definitive and hiring key personnel like McIntyre will assist our efforts greatly.”
McIntyre has a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and finance from the University of South Carolina and graduated from both the S.C. Bankers School and the Graduate School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University.
His career has spanned 22 years with several large financial institutions. Most recently, McIntyre served as a Lexington Executive with a competing bank.
For more Information: Van Rowell Rick Saunders Marketing President & CEO First Reliance Bank First Reliance Bank 2170 W. Palmetto St. 2170 W. Palmetto St. Florence, SC 29501 Florence, SC 29501 (843) 269-0264 (843) 656-5000 vrowell@firstreliance.com rsaunders@firstreliance.com
