Rita Lowman Elected to FOTB Executive Committee

News Summary

Rita Lowman, a veteran banker with over 40 years of experience, has been elected to the executive committee of the Friends of Traditional Banking (FOTB). Her role will bolster FOTB’s advocacy for community-focused banks. Lowman previously served on FOTB’s banker board and holds leadership positions in several banks. Her election is expected to drive positive changes in the traditional banking sector, especially in her home state of Florida.

St. Petersburg – Rita Lowman, a seasoned banker with over four decades of experience in the banking sector, has been elected to the executive committee of Friends of Traditional Banking (FOTB), a nationwide SuperPAC based in Utah. Her election strengthens the leadership of FOTB, which is dedicated to advocating for local community-focused banks. Lowman previously represented Florida on FOTB’s banker board, contributing her extensive knowledge to the organization.

Mike Winder, the executive director of FOTB, highlighted that Lowman’s expertise and industry insights would be an important addition to the committee. Alongside her new committee role, Lowman currently holds board positions at Caldwell Trust Co. and Encore Bank, both of which she joined in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

Lowman’s professional background is marked by significant leadership roles, including chair of the Florida Bankers Association and involvement with the Southeastern U.S. cabinet of the American Cancer Society. She has also served on the executive board of the Tampa Bay Chamber, showcasing her commitment to both the banking industry and community service.

Founded in 2012, FOTB aims to identify key Congressional races that have a direct impact on local banking institutions. With a membership base of 30,000, FOTB encourages its members to donate to campaigns supporting community-focused banking. This mission reflects the organization’s commitment to the interests of traditional banks across the nation.

In addition to her roles within FOTB and other board positions, Lowman serves as the President of Pilot Bank, which recently opened a new branch in St. Petersburg at 2180 4th St. N. This location marks a nostalgic return to the site previously occupied by Barnett Bank, a financial institution she assisted in acquiring for NationsBank, which is now Bank of America.

The newly inaugurated Pilot Bank branch features several customer-friendly amenities, including private offices, a conference room, a coffee bar, and dedicated space for community events. An emphasis on local culture is evident through the integration of art and exhibits from local artists, including a mural that celebrates St. Petersburg’s historical significance in commercial flight.

Having amassed total assets of $333 million, Pilot Bank operates five branches—four in Tampa and one in Lakeland. The decision to open a new branch is particularly noteworthy within the context of the banking industry in Pinellas County, which has increasingly seen closures rather than openings. This expansion signals growth and confidence in the St. Petersburg market, an area Lowman believes has significant growth potential.

The building for the new Pilot Bank branch was purchased for $1.7 million by 4th Street Ventures LLC in January. The branch’s design prioritizes available space for community events, aiming to create a welcoming environment that fosters local engagement. The bank’s commitment to embedding itself within the community demonstrates an initiative to strengthen ties and provide resources to local residents.

As Rita Lowman embarks on this expanded leadership role within both the banking sector and the community, her influence is expected to yield positive outcomes for traditional banking in Florida and beyond. Her dedication to fostering community ties while advocating for local banks is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of banking across the nation.

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Additional Resources

• Business Observer: St. Petersburg Banker Joins SuperPAC Leadership
• Wikipedia: Super PAC
• St. Pete Catalyst: First Look Inside the New Pilot Bank
• Google Search: Pilot Bank St Petersburg
• St. Pete Catalyst: Pilot Bank Names Veteran Banker as St. Petersburg Market Leader
• Google Scholar: Rita Lowman Banking
• St. Pete Catalyst: Pilot Bank Sells in $96 Million Deal
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Banking