South Atlantic Bank CEO Elected Treasurer of American Bankers Association

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – K. Wayne Wicker, Chairman and CEO of South Atlantic Bank, has been elected Treasurer of the American Bankers Association (ABA) board of directors for the 2025-2026 term, marking a significant step in his leadership within the national banking community.

Wicker’s ascent to Treasurer, effective as of the ABA’s annual convention held last week, underscores his deep understanding of the banking sector and his commitment to advancing the industry’s interests. He has been a member of the ABA board since 2022 and served as Treasurer since 2024, bringing over 38 years of banking experience to the role. His tenure is expected to focus on bolstering the ABA’s financial oversight and strategic investment decisions.

Beyond his role at South Atlantic Bank, Wicker’s extensive background includes service on the South Carolina State Board of Financial Institutions and as past chairman of the South Carolina Bankers Association. His academic credentials include a B.S. degree in business administration from The Citadel, as well as completion of The Graduate School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University and the South Carolina Bankers School at the University of South Carolina. Wicker is also a veteran, having served in the South Carolina Air National Guard and as a veteran of the Gulf War.

“We congratulate these volunteer banker leaders on their election to the ABA Board,” said Rob Nichols, ABA President and CEO. “Their voices will be central to shaping the advocacy priorities for America’s banks and helping to advance a policy environment that empowers financial institutions to innovate, compete and serve their customers. Together, we’ll work to strengthen our financial system and drive economic growth.” Nichols’ statement highlights the ABA’s strategic focus on advocating for policies that support innovation and competition within the banking sector, ultimately aiming to foster a more robust financial system.

South Atlantic Bancshares, Inc. Overview

South Atlantic Bancshares, Inc. (OTCQX: SABK), headquartered in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a bank holding company with assets exceeding $1.9 billion. Through its subsidiary, South Atlantic Bank, the company operates twelve offices across coastal South Carolina, focusing on personalized community banking services for individuals, small businesses, and corporations. The bank offers a comprehensive suite of consumer and commercial banking products, including mortgage and treasury management services. South Atlantic Bank’s geographic footprint and service model positions it as a key player in the South Carolina banking landscape.

The election of Wicker as ABA Treasurer is seen as a positive development for community banks, particularly those in the Southeast. His track record of leadership and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the banking industry are expected to bring valuable insights to the ABA’s policy initiatives.