Carney Named President of First State Bank

Gary Carney took the helm as President of First State Bank of the Florida Keys on January 1, 2023. Karen Sharp, who retired after 20 years as President, has assumed the title of Director Emeritus.

In the announcement, Chairman of the Board Jack Spottswood said, “With almost 40 years’ banking experience, 16 of those with our bank, Gary brings extensive financial and management expertise to his new position. His knowledge and leadership of both the customer experience and operational sides of the Bank have created cohesive and effective teams and we eagerly await the enhancements he will bring to our entire organization.”

“In addition to his dedication to our Bank, our employees, and our customers, Gary’s commitment to our communities is deep,” Sharp added. “During the pandemic he led the way by building our team to assist local businesses in obtaining almost $100 million in PPP loans to keep their businesses open and their staff employed.”

In commenting on his promotion Carney said, “I am honored to take the reins of such a deep-rooted and well-respected institution, based in a community truly like no other. I look forward to working with our team to continue the traditions of exceptional customer service that have been honed over the last 67 years, while pushing forward with new technology and digital services to ensure that customers can conduct their business in whatever manner best suits their needs.”

Carney joined First State Bank in 2006 as Senior Vice President/Senior Loan Administration Officer and was promoted to Executive Vice President in 2008, Chief Credit Officer in 2012, and Chief Operating Officer in 2021. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Kent State University, received a graduate degree in Banking from America’s Community Bankers, and is attending the Executive Development Institute from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. Prior to joining First State Bank, Carney led the Commercial Credit department at Charter One Bank overseeing a five-state market.

Spottswood also expressed the Board’s appreciation for Sharp’s contributions. “We thank Karen for her unwavering dedication over the last 34 years and her exceptional leadership throughout her two decades at the helm of our Bank,” said Spottswood. “Her high standards were reflected throughout our culture benefitting our employees, our customers, and our entire Bank.”