[media-credit name=”Thad Walton” align=”alignright” width=”369″]
[/media-credit]
You oughta know
Thad Walton is senior vice president of commercial middle-market banking for Regions Bank in North Carolina. He joined Birmingham, Ala.-based Regions in 2011 and has worked in commercial banking for 14 years. A native of Rowan County, Thad attended UNC Chapel Hill, where he earned his undergraduate business degree and was on the varsity cheerleading team. Thad later earned a law degree from Charlotte School of Law. He’s also a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Treasury Professional. Thad is an avid, passionate and superstitious UNC fan and lives in Charlotte with his wife, daughter, two sons and golden retriever named Beaux.
5 questions:
What do you like best about your job?
I have always been fascinated by how people make a living and how things work. Banking is a great platform to learn about both. I have the opportunity to constantly meet new people and tour businesses across the state in every industry — there is no shortage of variety. One day, I sat with the CEO of a $500-million manufacturer in the morning, met a physician group for lunch, and then toured a goat farm in the afternoon. Every day is full of new experiences and learning opportunities.
What inspires you?
My family — without question. The love and support of my wife and three children (with a fourth due in April) keep me motivated and competitive every day. My wife Megan is the rock, and while we’re all running in different directions, she always keeps “family” front and center. My father passed in December, and he was my hero. He always expected our best, and likely because he was also my elementary-school principal, he held us accountable. My mother is a constant source of love and compassion, but I see it now more than ever — she is such a strong person. I am forever thankful to have such a loving family in all parts of my life.
Who should we be paying attention to?
Senior leadership in our organizations. Many of our leaders have incredible experiences, some having endured 40+ years of economic cycles. They have seen technology completely change the way we communicate and do business. They have kept us current and adapted to the needs and wants of newer generations, and have had to make very tough decisions with significant organizational impact — more than once. These individuals are tremendous resources for those of us still on the front-end of our careers. The next generation will eventually be called upon as the senior leaders — how will we respond?
What was your biggest challenge this week?
Time management — with travel early in the week, Valentine’s Day, and now a holiday weekend on the horizon, I am thankful that Regions fosters a healthy work-life balance and provides us with the technology to do our jobs effectively.
Favorite N.C. vacation spot?
Tough question! In the last 3 weeks, I’ve hit some personal favorites — the ski slopes near Banner Elk, Asheville and Pinehurst. I love the outdoors, anywhere peaceful with a great view. There are so many wonderful things to do within a close proximity
