Studio Bank Chattanooga Team
Nashville-based Studio Bank announced today an expert team of local banking professionals with deep ties to the Chattanooga community will lead its first location in the Scenic City, marking a significant step in the Bank’s growth strategy. The team will open a temporary space in downtown Chattanooga’s Warehouse Row before moving to a full-service office that will soon be under development in that same location.
“We’re excited to bring Studio’s unique blend of high-touch service and modern technology to Chattanooga, and to launch the office with such a well-respected and experienced local team leading the way,” said Studio Bank Founder, Chairman and President Aaron Dorn. “Chattanooga’s vibrant economy and creative, entrepreneurial spirit make it the perfect match for Studio, and we look forward to deepening our connections in the community.”
Studio’s Chattanooga office will be led locally by banking industry veteran Jeff Bridgman. Jeff has nearly 30 years of banking experience in the Chattanooga area. Most recently, he served as executive vice president and commercial bank executive at Builtwell Bank.
Studio Bank entered the Nashville market in 2018 as the city’s first de novo bank in more than a decade during one of the most competitive and challenging eras in the city’s banking history. Through it all, the bank has demonstrated adaptability and an unwavering commitment to excellence while establishing itself as one of the region’s preeminent financial institutions. It outpaced the historic growth rate of previous, newly chartered Nashville banks and has surpassed all growth projections since, becoming one of the city’s fastest growing businesses. The bank, with offices in Nashville and Franklin, Tenn., boasts more than $1 billion in assets today and is well positioned to continue the strong pace of growth and expansion that the bank has pursued since its inception.
The bank is on a mission to empower creators – whether creating a new business or a better life. They fulfill this purpose by providing resources, serving clients with their very best, and achieving great things together. The bank’s emphasis on member experience, high-touch service and modern technology make it a force for creativity and set it apart from other community and regional banks. Beyond banking services, Studio actively engages with the community through initiatives that support many local non-profit organizations. Whether volunteering or providing financial support, its team is committed to making a difference for people from all walks of life.
Meet Studio Bank’s Chattanooga Team:
Rachell Bilbrey has extensive experience in commercial lending, treasury, and retail banking, and previously served as director of Treasury at Builtwell Bank in Chattanooga. Rachell founded and scaled the bank’s Treasury department and built a large commercial portfolio during her time there. Last year, she was recognized by the Independent Community Bankers Association as a Top 40 Under 40 Bank Leader. Rachell earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bryan College.
Bonnie Blalock has served the needs of business, commercial and corporate banking clients in the Chattanooga area for nearly 35 years. Prior to joining the Studio Bank team, she served as a commercial banking advisor at Builtwell Bank in Chattanooga. Bonnie earned a degree in Corporate Finance & Investment Management from the University of Alabama.
Bryan Fryar has 30 years of experience and expertise in commercial and private banking and retail banking management. He most recently served as a Chattanooga market leader in commercial banking at Old National Bank (previously Capstar Bank) in Chattanooga. Bryan earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Queens College.
Jennifer Griffin is a banking professional with more than 30 years of experience in the industry and a deep knowledge of consumer and commercial lending. She most recently served as a commercial lender at Old National Bank (previously Capstar Bank). Jennifer is a graduate of the University of West Georgia.
Dylan Paris brings more than 20 years of banking experience to his new role at Studio Bank. In Dylan’s most recent role, he served as a commercial bank advisor at Builtwell Bank. Dylan is graduate of Chattanooga’s Baylor School, Carson Newman College and the University of Georgia School of Banking.
Shaina Smith has more than 15 years of experience in mortgage lending, private client services, and business relationship management. Known for delivering tailored financial solutions and cultivating strong relationships with clients, Shaina most recently served as a business relationship banker at Builtwell Bank in Chattanooga. She is a graduate of Chattanooga State Community College.
Allison Gifford has worked as a bank branch manager, retail manager and commercial support team leader for multiple financial institutions in the Chattanooga area for more than 25 years. She most recently served as a commercial support team leader for Old National Bank (previously Capstar Bank).
Linda Smith has served as a senior commercial para-lender in the Chattanooga area for more than 25 years, managing multiple commercial lending portfolios. Linda graduated from West Georgia College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.