Oakworth Capital Welcomes W. Russell Carothers III to Its Board of Directors
On July 15, 2026, Oakworth Capital Inc. made a significant announcement regarding its governance as W. Russell 'Russ' Carothers III officially joined the company's Board of Directors. This strategic appointment reflects Oakworth's commitment to strengthening its leadership team with seasoned experts in the financial services arena.
Mr. Carothers brings a wealth of expertise to Oakworth, having amassed nearly 40 years of experience in finance, information technology, and operations. For 37 of those years, he effectively served at Ernst & Young (EY) in the financial services audit sector, where he specialized in banking and capital markets. His extensive background includes working with a diverse range of financial institutions, from community banks to multinational corporations and global exchanges. This breadth of experience positions him uniquely to contribute valuable insights and guidance to Oakworth as the company continues to innovate and evolve in the financial landscape.
As a member of the board, Carothers will also fulfill the vital role of chairing Oakworth's audit committee. Scott Reed, Oakworth's Chairman and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for this appointment, emphasizing that 'Russ’ depth of knowledge and experience across all facets of the financial services industry will be an asset to our board and to our company.' He believes Carothers will play a crucial role in guiding the company towards its strategic objectives, particularly in redefining financial services to enhance client satisfaction.
Founded in 2008, Oakworth Capital Inc. operates as the holding company for Oakworth Capital Bank, which has become known for its strong emphasis on commercial and private banking, wealth management, and advisory services across the United States. The company's headquarters is located in Birmingham, Alabama, with multiple offices throughout the Southeast.
Oakworth Capital has earned accolades for its workplace culture, having been recognized by American Banker as one of the 'Best Banks to Work For in the U.S.' for nine consecutive years. Notably, the company maintained the top position for six of those years, underscoring its dedication to employee satisfaction and engagement.
The bank's financial health is equally impressive, demonstrating substantial growth. As of March 31, 2026, Oakworth reported total assets amounting to $2.0 billion, with $1.7 billion in gross loans and $1.8 billion in deposits. Furthermore, its wealth and trust assets under management peaked at $2.7 billion. In 2025, the company achieved an outstanding average Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 95, alongside a commendable client retention rate of 95%, demonstrating the strong relationships it fosters with its clientele.
As Oakworth Capital Inc. embarks on its next chapter with the addition of Carothers to its board, stakeholders can look forward to new strategies and innovative solutions that will continue to benefit clients. The inclusion of such a seasoned professional amplifies Oakworth's mission to simplify financial services, enhance client experiences, and advocate for their financial aspirations effectively.
For further details about Oakworth Capital and its various financial services, visit their official website at www.oakworth.com. Here, clients and potential clients alike can explore comprehensive banking options, wealth management services, and advisory solutions tailored to meet diverse financial needs. The future appears promising for Oakworth Capital Inc. as it positions itself for growth and continued excellence in the financial sector.