An Interview With Scott Garrett, Plateau Market President

What’s your story? Where did you grow up and have you always lived in Tennessee?
I have lived and worked here my entire life and plan to spend retirement here.

How did you get into banking?
My uncle was President of a small community bank and my Dad was a director. I went to work there after high school and completed college while at the bank.

How is the culture different at FirstBank compared to larger banks?
Decisions are made closer to home with people you know. You get to know the leadership teams on a personal level and are empowered to serve the local communities.

What is your favorite part about your job?
Working with people every day that I consider to be friends.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
My life was consumed with sports, so I never really thought about anything else until it was time to leave high school.

FirstBank operates as a community bank, with the services and resources of a large bank. What advantages does that give you in your job? What about your customers?
It allows us to react quickly to the needs of the client and be able to offer the services of a much larger bank. It’s a special niche that separates us from other smaller and national banks.

What do you like best about being a community banker?
Getting to know the customers on a personal level and being able to meet their needs in a very efficient manner.

As a Market President, what’s your vision for FirstBank in your market area?
We want to be the best available resource to our customers and the community by providing advice, guidance and education that is second to none.

Describe your market area in three words.
Growing, diverse and vibrant.

If you could give your 20-year-old self one piece of advice, knowing what you know now, what would that advice be?
Find something that you’re passionate about and commit yourself to being the best.

Have you ever had a mentor who made a difference in your life? How so?
My first boss.  His work ethic and concern for the client was contagious to all who worked around him.

What is your life’s motto?
Enjoy life.

Describe your perfect vacation.
I actually have two. A week in the mountains in winter time or a week at the beach in the summer with my wife. We love both.