Corey McWhorter was recently named Regions market executive in Gadsden, Alabama.
We caught up with McWhorter to discuss his path to leadership. Learn more about McWhorter’s customer service philosophy and his plans to demonstrate Regions’ mission to make life better for people and businesses throughout Etowah and Cherokee Counties.
What do you want to achieve in your new role as Gadsden market executive?
Regions’ mission statement is to make life better for the communities we serve, and I’m proud to carry that mission forward in Etowah and Cherokee Counties.
Regions is a leader within the communities we serve, especially in the areas of economic & community development, education & workforce readiness and financial wellness. I look forward to working with our teams to invest in our communities, strengthen customer relationships and engage our associates to be leaders in addressing community challenges where we can and by volunteering their time to help in these focus areas.
What’s been the biggest change you’ve observed in the banking industry during your career?
The integration and use of technology has, no doubt, changed how we serve customers.
The expectation that you can only cash a check or make a deposit when the bank is open has changed dramatically with the use of digital technology. When a customer needs quick, efficient service early in the morning, late in the evening, or even on Saturday or Sunday, resources are available to meet that need. It is incredible the ease and convenience technology has made on our ability to transact business and keep our customers moving forward.
What’s your approach to serving customers in the Gadsden community?
Banking is a relationship business, so my approach has always been focused on building a personal relationship with customers to better understand their individual goals, challenges and aspirations. I want to be more than a banker to my customers. I want to be part of their family and business team to serve as best I can.
You’re involved with the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, The Empty Stocking, Inc. & Oxford, Alabama’s Main Street Advisory Board. What do you enjoy most about your volunteer service, and what have you learned about yourself from the experience?
I most enjoy the opportunity to improve the lives of my neighbors. I cannot solve all of my community’s problems by myself, but I can work with my team of Regions associates and community leadership to make a substantial difference in the lives of those who live in my community.
In September 2018, I completed Auburn University’s Government & Economic Development Institute’s Intensive Economic Development Training Course. That experience will help me promote Gadsden and advocate for economic development opportunities.
Additionally, I was appointed by Governor Ivey to serve on the Finance Technical Advisory Committee of the Alabama Committee on Credentialing and Career Pathways to help with workforce development across our area.
My goal is to make a difference, serving with my neighbors to make Gadsden, Etowah County and Cherokee County the best it can be.
What’s one unique thing about you that might surprise your teammates and/or clients?
My father was a banker, so I am a second-generation banker. My aunt is also in banking, so you could say it’s a family business.
Tell us a bit more about yourself. What hobbies do you enjoy?
I was born in Frankfurt, Germany. My dad was military.
I graduated from Jacksonville State University in 1996 with a degree in Finance. I began a career in finance upon graduation and been in the business ever since.
My interests include traveling, being outdoors & watching sports.
My favorite city is New Orleans, and my favorite people are my wife, Sherlyn, and three children, Reese, Juli and Kendall.