Decatur resident is new Chief Risk pro for bank

Private Bank of Buckhead has named Decatur resident Michael T. Keller Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer. Private Bank of Decatur is a division of the bank.

Keller has a deep banking resume, particularly in the local market, and previously worked with the bank’s Judy Turner.

“In adding Michael to our team, we continue to take the perspective of total enterprise risk management,” says Charlie Crawford, President, CEO and Chairman of the bank. “In today’s increasingly regulated banking environment it is a more effective and more efficient way to approach this key facet of our work and responsibilities. Having a seasoned Chief Risk Officer is the way most larger institutions have gone in recent years and we know that our clients and shareholders deserve no less.”

Keller previously led credit and risk functions at other area banks, and has served as a bank consultant. He spent the first eight years of his career working with the FDIC, which adds to his broad and unique perspective on the industry. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/Finance from the University of Central Florida and is a certified Risk Professional (BAI).

“I am very detail-oriented – as you might imagine for someone in this role – and methodical,” Keller says. “I strive to ensure I have reviewed all sides of a situation and have gathered the appropriate information when making important decisions. In terms of work style, I encourage associates to make smart decisions and work as independently as possible, collaborating as necessary to make the most prudent credit risk decisions as possible for our clients and shareholders.”

Away from the bank, Keller is a fitness enthusiast who hopes to get in the best physical shape of his life this year. He also enjoys home improvement projects, is a movie buff and collects Tiffin Glassware (he is a native of Tiffin, Ohio). Keller has a son who is a college-bound recent high school graduate, and a daughter who is 16. He resides in Decatur with his longtime partner Rick and their rescue dog Chloe.

Private Bank of Decatur brings a private banking approach to all clients across all functions of the bank. It is designated a Preferred Lender by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and includes a recently relaunched and expanded mortgage unit,PrivatePlus Mortgage.