Our goal at Peoples Bank is to provide access to personal and business banking services and help the people in our community through quality services and outstanding customer service.
Peoples Bank of East Tennessee is proud to announce that Kari Phillips has been named Branch Manager of the Sweetwater branch.
Kari Phillips has been part of the Peoples Bank team for several years, beginning as a teller during her college breaks in 2018 before joining the bank full-time through the Personal Banker program. She grew up in Vonore, attended Lee University, and earned her MBA in 2021.
In her new role, Kari will lead the Sweetwater branch while continuing to serve customers as a loan officer. Her background in finance, lending, and customer service has helped prepare her for this leadership role, and her approach to banking is rooted in building relationships and helping customers find solutions that support their financial goals.
“Kari brings a strong understanding of community banking, a heart for helping others, and a genuine connection to our customers and team,” said Beth Henry, S.V.P Retail Branch Coordinator. “We are excited to see her step into this leadership role at our Sweetwater branch.”
As Kari steps into this role, Vanessa Lewis, S.V.P., Consumer Portfolio Manager and Senior Collections Officer, will continue supporting the Sweetwater team during the transition while taking on a broader role within the bank’s management team. In her expanded role, Vanessa will work closely with the Credit and Processing departments to strengthen internal processes, improve efficiencies, and support continued growth across the bank. Vanessa has been a dedicated leader for the Sweetwater branch and continues to be a tremendous asset to Peoples Bank. Her experience and insight will help the bank continue improving the way we serve customers, support our teams, and strengthen internal operations.
“Kari has a true heart for community banking, and I am excited to see her lead the Sweetwater branch,” said Vanessa Lewis. “She cares deeply about our customers, our employees, and the relationships that make Peoples Bank special. I know the branch is in great hands.”
Peoples Bank of East Tennessee remains committed to investing in strong local leadership and providing relationship-focused banking across the communities it serves.
Our goal at Peoples Bank is to provide access to personal and business banking services and help the people in our community through quality services and outstanding customer service.
Proudly Serving East Tennessee
NMLS ID# 450164
(423) 442-7262
