United Community has promoted Sharon Thompson to chief commercial banking officer, a newly created role designed to support the company’s continued growth and expansion of its commercial and specialty banking capabilities.
Thompson most recently served as United Community’s Florida state president, where she helped drive strong growth, recruit top talent and deepen relationships with businesses and communities across the state.
“Sharon is the right leader for this role at the right time for United,” said Rich Bradshaw, president and chief banking officer at United Community. “We’re proud to elevate a proven leader from within our organization. Sharon brings deep commercial expertise, a people-first leadership style and a strong track record of building high-performing teams. She will play an important role as we continue to grow and expand our specialty lines of business.”
In her new role, Thompson will oversee several of United’s commercial and specialty banking lines, including asset-based lending, middle market, franchise, commercial real estate, renewable energy, treasury services and public finance. She will also lead efforts to further strengthen these businesses through strategic recruiting and team development.
Since joining United in 2019, Thompson has held several leadership roles of increasing responsibility. Prior to becoming Florida state president in 2023, she served as president of the Central Atlanta Region and previously as East Atlanta regional president, helping build one of the bank’s highest-producing markets. Before joining United, Thompson held leadership roles at Wells Fargo and BB&T, with experience spanning commercial banking, business banking and sales leadership.
“United Community has a long history of investing in its people and its communities, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving in this expanded role,” said Thompson. “As we grow, our focus remains on building strong relationships, supporting our customers’ financial goals and helping businesses thrive in the communities we serve. I’m excited to work alongside our talented commercial teams across the footprint as we continue building for the future.”
Thompson holds a master’s degree in finance and financial management services from East Carolina University and a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Judson College. She has also been actively involved in community organizations throughout her career, including service with nonprofit and civic groups focused on housing, economic empowerment and community development.