Bernard Wheeler has joined First Reliance Bank as a Relationship Banker in Greenville, SC. In his new role, Wheeler will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with business customers and offering advice on everything from personal and business deposit accounts to loans, treasury management services and investments available through First Reliance Wealth Strategies.

Based out of the Downtown Greenville branch, Wheeler brings more than 15 years of professional banking experience to the team. Throughout his career, Wheeler has held multiple fast paced positions at several local financial institutions including as Vice President, Branch Manager and Small Business Banker, and Relationship Banker. Wheeler holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Winthrop University and a Masters of Business Administration from Webster University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bernard to the team in Greenville,” said Rick Saunders, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Reliance Bank. “He is a self-disciplined banking professional that is adept at fostering new profitable relationships and we are confident in his ability to deliver a Better Banking experience to our customers.”

“We truly believe that there’s more to banking than money and Bernard has proven to be an expert in building relationships throughout his banking career,” said Neal Kyber, Greenville Market President. “He brings outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to the team and we are excited for his success with us at First Reliance Bank.”

Wheeler is active in the community and currently serves as a Member of the Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he serves on the Finance and Personnel Committee of the Mary Black Hospital and is a member of the Bridge Builder Mentorship Program. He has served on local boards such as the Piedmont Community Actions and has volunteered for numerous organizations, including Big Brother Big Sister, Meals on Wheels, and Habitat for Humanity.