Oconee State Bank adds four veteran bankers for expanded Middle Georgia service

Michael Thigpen, Regional President at Oconee State Bank - Oconee State Bank
Michael Thigpen, Regional President at Oconee State Bank - Oconee State Bank
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Oconee State Bank has announced the addition of four experienced banking professionals to its Middle Georgia team. Andy Flowers, Baxter James, Daryl Cohen, and Lisa Marie Pierce have joined the bank in key leadership roles aimed at strengthening service and expertise in the Macon and Warner Robins area.

The new hires bring a combined total of over 100 years of experience in areas such as client relationship management, commercial lending, community engagement, and branch operations. The bank stated that this move aligns with its mission to deliver strong relationship-based banking throughout the region.

“We are honored to welcome Andy, Baxter, Daryl, and Lisa Marie to our OSB family,” said Michael Thigpen, Regional President. “These leaders embody our core values, bringing unmatched knowledge, integrity, passion, and a deep sense of community. Most importantly, their character aligns with the vision, mission, and values of Oconee State Bank. As we continue our growth journey, their expertise will play a critical role in helping local businesses thrive and in delivering our unique brand of remarkable service to customers in Middle Georgia, in partnership with our existing downtown Macon team.”

Andy Flowers has been appointed Senior Vice President and Community President for Middle Georgia. With 37 years in banking across various senior leadership roles statewide—including credit administration and regulatory oversight—Flowers brings extensive operational knowledge.

Baxter James joins as Vice President for Commercial Lending after 21 years in banking. He is recognized for his focus on strategic financial solutions tailored to individual client needs.

Daryl Cohen also takes on a Vice President role in Commercial Lending. With more than three decades’ experience—including expertise in real estate finance—Cohen is known for building strong client relationships across Middle Georgia.

Lisa Marie Pierce becomes Assistant Vice President and Financial Center Manager. She brings nearly 23 years of experience managing customer service teams and overseeing branch operations.

Chief Banking Officer Philip Bernardi commented on the appointments: “As we continue to live out our mission of creating remarkable experiences that significantly mark the lives of others, we’re excited to welcome these talented new team members. Their addition strengthens our ability to serve the Middle Georgia region and reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in exceptional talent.”

The bank indicated that these hires support its ongoing strategy to provide concierge-style banking services focused on building long-term partnerships within local communities.



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