Celebrating Michael Leonard’s Retirement After 43 Years in Banking

After 43 years in banking, Michael Leonard will retire from BankSouth on September 11.

Michael began his banking career while still in college, working part-time in an industry that looked very different than it does today. He likes to put the changes he has seen in perspective: over the course of his career, he has gone from seeing the introduction of the fax machine to using AI with Sequence. Michael joined BankSouth eight years ago and has been an instrumental leader in our Atlanta market, bringing decades of experience, strong relationships, and a commitment to the customers and teammates he has served.

We are grateful for the impact he has made on our customers, our team, and our community, and we wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Following Michael's retirement, Phil Cleaveland will assume the role of Atlanta Market Leader. Phil has been promoted from his current role as VP, Relationship Manager, and brings extensive banking experience and a strong commitment to relationship-focused service.

While leadership is changing, our commitment to our customers remains the same. We look forward to Phil's leadership as he builds on the strong foundation Michael has helped establish.

Please join us in congratulating Michael on an outstanding 43-year banking career and wishing him and his family all the best in a well-earned retirement!