First Chatham Bank, Savannah’s locally owned and operated community bank, announced that Kenneth R. Farrell has been elected President & Chief Executive Officer of the bank.

With a career spanning over 40 years, Farrell joined the Bank as Executive Vice President and Senior Credit Officer in 2006, following an executive tenure with Barnett Bank and later Bank of America. Most recently Farrell served as Interim CEO during a transition period for the Bank.

A graduate of Florida State University, Farrell has been involved in numerous community and professional organizations throughout Southeast Georgia including the United Way, YMCA of Coastal Georgia, Jekyll Island Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, College of Coastal Georgia Foundation, Executive Association of Savannah, Savannah Chamber of Commerce CEO Council and Rotary International.  He has also served as the Chairman of the Glynn County Development Authority and was a 2001 graduate of Leadership Georgia.

“We are very pleased to have Ken serve as President & CEO on a permanent basis.” Said FCB Financial Corp. Chairman, Steve Green.  “He has been a strong and capable leader and has been instrumental in helping to lead our bank out from under a formal Regulatory Order which was recently terminated.”  “The Board of Directors is extremely confident in his ability to lead our bank, not only through the challenging times but also in prosperous times.”  Benny Curl, First Chatham Bank’s Chairman, indicated that “Farrell is an invaluable part of our team and has demonstrated outstanding leadership over the past four years as Interim CEO.” “He is committed to our values and we are excited about the future of our bank under his guidance.”  

In his permanent role, Farrell will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the bank, its overall financial performance and its long-term growth strategy which includes the banks successful SBA Lending function.   Farrell will continue to lead the company as it delivers on its mission of building customer relationships through integrity and trust.  

Farrell commented, “I am honored to be afforded this opportunity and, in the faith and trust the Board of Directors have placed upon me.  I look forward to continuing the momentum that the Bank has established and to serve our customers, associates and shareholders in this capacity.”  

Farrell, and his wife Vonny, have two grown children and four grandchildren. They make their home in Chatham County.