First Citizens Bank Welcomes New Leadership in South Carolina and Georgia Regions

First Citizens Bank's New Leadership

First Citizens Bank is making waves in the southeastern financial landscape by announcing the appointment of two new Area Executives, Justin Rice and JP Connell. This strategic move aims to provide robust leadership and expert guidance in the bank's operations across South Carolina and Georgia, particularly in the vibrant Lowcountry and Charleston areas.

New Leadership Roles

Justin Rice is set to oversee the South Carolina Lowcountry region, extending his influence to Savannah, Georgia. With nearly two decades of service in this market, Rice brings a wealth of experience to the table. He first became part of the First Citizens team in Columbia, South Carolina, back in 2006. His subsequent move to Hilton Head, South Carolina, in 2009 allowed him to deeply engage with both the community and the bank’s operations. Most recently, Rice has been serving as the Market Executive for the Lowcountry since 2015, where he has been responsible for four branches and their corresponding business banking efforts.

In addition to his banking acumen, Rice is known for his strong community involvement. He currently chairs the University of South Carolina Education Foundation and serves on the board of influential local organizations, including the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and the Hilton Head Regional Habitat for Humanity.

JP Connell joins Rice, taking charge of the Charleston region and its surrounding areas. Connell’s journey with First Citizens Bank began in 2018 at their Denver, Colorado, offices. He quickly climbed the ranks to become a national sales team leader for the bank’s cannabis banking division, demonstrating his versatile capabilities and strategic thinking. Before this new appointment, he served as the Business Banking Manager for the Southern Coastal area, further solidifying his expertise in regional banking needs.

Connell holds an MBA from the renowned Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina, which he earned in 2022 along with a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina. His educational background complements his professional experience, equipping him with the tools necessary to lead effectively in today’s competitive banking environment.

Enhancing Client Services

The leadership of Rice and Connell comes at a crucial time when the Southern coastal economy is experiencing significant growth across various industries. Shan Teel, the South Regional Executive Vice President for First Citizens Bank, emphasizes the importance of having leaders with deep ties to their communities, noting that clients are increasingly seeking expert advice to navigate complex financial challenges.

“These appointments reflect our ongoing focus on enhancing our teams in these regions,” said Teel. “Both Justin and JP have strong relationships within the community, and their client-centered approach will help us meet the diverse financial needs of our clients.”

With a total of 17 branches providing a range of banking services in Charleston and the Lowcountry areas, First Citizens Bank has firmly established its presence in South Carolina for over 75 years. Today, the bank operates with around 1,000 associates and boasts more than 100 branches statewide, committed to serving clients across personal, business, commercial, and wealth segments.

First Citizens Bank stands as a pillar of stability and trust in the financial services sector, leveraging its deep-rooted history to foster long-term relationships with its clients. As the bank continues to navigate changes in the regional economy, the appointments of Rice and Connell are a testament to its dedication to overcoming challenges and seizing growth opportunities in the marketplace.

Conclusion

The fresh leadership at First Citizens Bank symbolizes a renewed commitment to community involvement, expert financial services, and client-focused strategies. As Rice and Connell step into their new roles, they are not just leading a bank—they are enhancing the very fabric of financial support that clients depend on in an ever-evolving economic landscape. With their extensive backgrounds and community ties, both executives are well-positioned to drive the bank’s initiatives forward, ensuring that First Citizens Bank continues to be a vital resource for its clients in South Carolina and Georgia.