March 16, 2020, Florence, S.C. — Frank Bullard has joined First Reliance Bank as Market President for Charleston, SC. Bullard is responsible for the strategic market expansion of First Reliance Bank’s footprint in the Charleston market, and he will oversee sales management and community development throughout that footprint.

Bullard has over 37 years of experience in the banking industry. He began his career in BB&T’s Management Development Program in 1981 and has served in retail and commercial banking roles in both Carolinas. He was Market President for the Charleston/Coastal markets prior to his retirement in 2019. 

“Frank has had an incredible banking career, and we are honored that he is willing to come out of retirement to assist First Reliance Bank as we continue our progress in the Charleston region,” said Rick Saunders, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Reliance Bank. “His leadership experience and banking relationships will be important for First Reliance Bank in further connecting with the Charleston area. Frank understands community banking and the importance of making a difference in the lives of our customers and the communities we serve.”

“Frank is a special leader who understands the Charleston market,” said Robert Dozier, Chief Banking Officer at First Reliance Bank. “We couldn’t be more excited for his leadership and the experience he’ll bring to our Charleston team. Our entire team is dedicated to helping customers in our Charleston market take full advantage of our many products and services. As a community bank, we’re able to develop deeper, more personal relationships with our customers and excel in delivering that best-in-class personal service.”

Bullard is a graduate of East Carolina University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business, and is a graduate of the LSU Graduate School of Banking of the South. In 2018, he received an Honorary Doctorate of Business Administration from Charleston Southern University.

Bullard is active in the community and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Trident United Way and was Chairman of its 2018-2019 Campaign Cabinet. Additionally, he serves on the Board of Trustees for Charleston Southern University, where he is a member of its Executive Committee. He has served on numerous state and local boards, including those of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, the South Carolina Bankers Association, the Trident Technical College Foundation and the MUSC Children’s Hospital Advisory Fund Board. Most recently, he served as a Steering Committee member for the new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.