CHARLESTON, S.C.—Fifth Third Bank, N.A., announced last year the addition of a commercial banking team in the Charleston market. In 2023, the expansion will continue as the bank now has a mortgage team in place as well as plans to open two branch locations and add a wealth management team before the end of the year.
Fifth Third began operating in South Carolina in 2011 with a commercial team in Greenville and, in 2020, opened the first branch location in that market. The bank now serves the Upstate with a four branch locations and plans are in place for four more to open by the end of this year.
"Investment in South Carolina is a priority for Fifth Third," said Lee Fite, President, Fifth Third Bank, Carolinas Region. "We have been successfully serving the Upstate for over 10 years and are now expanding our operations in Charleston under the leadership of Charlie Arndt and Jason Hessberg. Our customers can count on our South Carolina team to listen and support their interests throughout the Palmetto State."
Last year, South Carolina Market President, Charlie Arndt, hired Jason Hessberg to build commercial operations in Charleston. Hessberg has a banking career spanning the last 18 years across private wealth, investment banking and most recently middle market banking. David Fichman, Josh Nissen and Liz Oates round out the experienced middle market team in Charleston and veteran banker Harry Smith is responsible for consumer mortgage. South Carolina native Michael McAbee will lead the retail branch operations.
"We have hit the ground running here in Charleston," said Hessberg, Middle Market Lead, Charleston Market. "The team here has decades of experience in serving the needs of the businesses and residents of the Low Country. The Middle Market platform has been warmly welcomed and our bankers are already seeing success in bringing our customer and community service focus to the Charleston market. We look for that to grow rapidly as we add the support of our Mortgage, Wealth Management and Retail teams to be able to surround our community with advice for all situations."
The first branch location is expected to open on James Island in late summer and will feature a drive-thru as well as the Bank’s 'Next Gen' design.
"We are extremely excited to open our first branch location in the Charleston market this summer," said Tommy Lloyd, SVP, Retail Executive, Carolinas Region, Fifth Third Bank. "Michael McAbee has been in the market working to recruit and train a local team that will bring our customer-focused approach and innovative branch design to the Low Country."
Next Gen branch features:
- Mobile bankers using technology that allows them to meet and serve customers in a variety of settings. Rather than having teller “windows,” the new space gives employees the freedom to move around the lobby. Tablet computers encourage a more direct and personal way of serving customers.
- tech wall with a dynamic digital screen.
- Flexible meeting and seating areas, with layers of privacy that can adjust depending on the need and the type of conversation taking place.
About Fifth Third
Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.
Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol "FITB." Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Member FDIC.