Mentors Make the Difference at SouthState

Many of today’s professionals can look back on a time when a mentor made an impact on where they are today. Some had a veteran editor who showed them the ropes. New teachers gleaned wisdom from educators with years of experience. At SouthState, bankers learn and grow from lenders, relationship managers, branch managers and many more. 

 

Supporting Emerging Leaders

John McLeod, regional area manager in the Grand Strand region of South Carolina, attributes his success to those who encouraged him when he sought new challenges and goals. 

“The leaders I’ve had always supported me when I wanted to make a change and take on more responsibility. So many of them have made a lasting impact on my career, giving me the drive to grow at SouthState,” he says. 

McLeod, a banker with SouthState for 17 years, recalls two mentors who poured into him at the start of his career. He credits Phillip McCorkle, retired SouthState commercial banker, with teaching him the ropes of relationship banking, while Greater Midlands Regional Area Manager Craig Boykin supported his career advancement. 

“Craig encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone. I asked him for an opportunity to prove myself, and he hired me as a financial sales representative (FSR) when our Lexington, South Carolina branch opened. He later hired me to my first manager position. I owe him a debt of gratitude for supporting my growth over the years,” McLeod says.

Culture of Cultivation

McLeod isn’t the only team member to receive valuable support over the years. The company purposefully creates an atmosphere where team members can take on new roles within their department or even learn new skills. 

“SouthState is unique in that we operate like a family by taking care of our employees’ well-being and development,” McLeod says. “From the top down, we have phenomenal people that truly care not only about the customer, but also their team.”

Today, McLeod oversees a team of people he says are the best parts of his day. 

“We have built genuine relationships, and we’re all doing our best job to make a great experience for our customers,” he says. 

Visit our Careers page for more information on how SouthState supports leadership growth.