Planters First Bank Announces Executive Promotions: Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM
Middle Georgia – Planters First Bank is proud to announce the well-deserved promotions of Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, as well as Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM. These leadership advancements reflect the bank’s commitment to recognizing and fostering talent from within, ensuring continued excellence in service and innovation.
Eli Tinsley, Bank President & CEO, expressed his confidence in Howe’s leadership: “Chris has been a driving force behind our efforts to enhance efficiency, foster growth, and strengthen our commitment to exceptional service. His strategic mindset and passion for excellence have consistently set him apart. As Executive Vice President, Chris will play an even greater role in shaping the future of Planters First Bank and ensuring we continue to deliver outstanding value to our customers, teammates, and communities.”
Chris Howe has a distinguished educational background, earning his Bachelor of Business Administration and completing his postgraduate studies at the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. With more than 25 years of experience in banking, Chris has an innovative, forward-looking approach to banking. A native of Warner Robins, Georgia, Chris resides in Houston County with his wife, Amy, and their two sons. He is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has served as past President of the Warner Robins Civitan Club and former Treasurer of the Warner Robins American Little League. He actively participates in the Warner Robins Chamber of Commerce. In addi
tion, Chris remains actively engaged with the International City Optimist Club.
Rusty Slade, Chief Operating Officer, highlighted Phillips’ impact: “Rose Phillips has been an exceptional leader in guiding our enterprise risk strategies, ensuring the bank operates with integrity and precision. Her promotion to Executive Vice President is a testament to her expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence. I am confident she will continue to drive positive change in her expanded role.”
Rose Phillips holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Georgia Southwestern State University and has completed the Southern Audit & Operations School through the Georgia Bankers Association, as well as the Georgia Banking School at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. With nearly 40 years of banking experience, Rose brings extensive industry knowledge and leadership to her role. A native of Cordele, Georgia, she and her husband, Dennis, now reside in Hawkinsville. Passionate about her community, Rose is actively involved in local initiatives and cherishes time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Courtney Tomlinson, who began her banking career in 2004, has accumulated over 20 years of experience across various banking roles, including Head Teller, Customer Service Representative, Loan AA/Port Manager, and Loan Processor. Her deep knowledge of lending and commitment to continuous learning have made her a valuable asset to the bank. She has also played an active role in community initiatives such as Leadership Crisp and numerous fundraisers and outreach programs.
Eli Tinsley praised Courtney’s dedication: “Courtney’s passion for helping others and her keen attention to detail have made her an invaluable part of our team. She has an incredible ability to balance professionalism with a warm, personal touch—always going the extra mile for both customers and colleagues. We’re thrilled to see her step into this new role, and I have no doubt she will continue to make a meaningful impact at Planters First Bank.”
Planters First Bank congratulates Chris Howe, Rose Phillips, and Courtney Tomlinson on their well-earned promotions and looks forward to their continued contributions to the bank’s success and the communities they serve.