Florida Banking August/September 2024

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR 136TH ANNUAL MEETING

BY DEREK JONES, FBA CHAIR

O ur recent Annual Meeting gave me a lot to think about; the timely sessions and panels covered many relevant topics including legislation, the economy, regulation, fraud, generative AI, innovation and more. In this column, I want to share a few highlights. First, let me say what a pleasure it was to catch up with colleagues and friends! The Annual Meeting is one of the best opportunities to network with our peers

colleagues’ perspectives on the different issues that our industry and our institutions are facing. The Horizon Banker Discussion and Reception centered around the topic of engaging the next generation of banking leaders. Bank presidents and CEOs shared thoughts and ideas with the FBA team not only about the recruitment and retention initiatives we’re implementing in our own institutions, but how the FBA can help. As

in the industry as well as vendors and partners. FBA President and CEO Kathy Kraninger presided over her first conference, and I must applaud the FBA team for a truly exceptional event. The briefing with OFR Chief of Bank Regulation Terry Hughes was timely and provided great insight on current legislation. Our keynote speakers were another highlight of the event; Stifel’s Chief Economist Dr. Lindsey Piegza gave us an informative economic outlook covering macro-economic trends in consumer spending and investment, while author Don Yaeger shared the moving personal story of Warrick

many of you know, this is a priority for the association as outlined by our new 2024-27 strategic plan. It is so important to engage the next generation of banking leaders who will carry the mantle of advocacy and education for our industry. We have a responsibility to train and develop our rising stars. If you or your colleagues have thoughts on this topic or were unable to attend the reception at the Annual Meeting, please reach out to Kathy Kraninger or the FBA team. The FBA welcomes our feedback. Congratulations to the deserving award winners and new officers who were recognized at the event!

“NEW TO THE AGENDA WERE THE PEER GROUP DISCUSSION AND HORIZON BANKER RECEPTION, BOTH OF WHICH ELICITED

DISCUSSION AND BRAINSTORMING AROUND THE CHALLENGES AND

OPPORTUNITIES OUR INDUSTRY IS FACING.”

Dunn to illustrate his 16 characteristics of greatness. New to the agenda were the Peer Group Discussion and Horizon Banker Reception, both of which elicited discussion and brainstorming around the challenges and opportunities our industry is facing. During the Peer Group Discussion, I had the opportunity to sit with a group of peers from institutions of a similar size. The moderator posed questions for us to discuss as a group, and I thought this was a valuable exercise. It was helpful to hear my

Other highlights of our 136th Annual Meeting included our vendor trade show, BankPac Silent Auction, and our final gala with awesome musical entertainment by Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos. If you were unable to join us, there are plenty of other opportunities to get involved in the latter half of the year. Check your inbox and visit FBA’s website for more information about upcoming events and initiatives. I look forward to seeing you!

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