Sam Tortorici Named CEO of Superior Bank

BIRMINGHAM, AL—Superior Bank (“Superior”) today announced that Sam Tortorici, a well-known banking leader in the Southeast, has been named Chief Executive Officer of the Bank.  Tortorici is a senior banking executive with more than 24 years of experience at Regions Bank.

Superior Bank has a branch located in Port St. Joe.

“Sam is a proven leader, well known in banking circles both in the Birmingham, Alabama region and throughout the Southeastern U.S.,” said Paul Murphy, Chairman of Superior Bank and the Chief Executive Officer of Community Bancorp, Superior’s parent company.  “He brings extensive banking experience from the local market, and we share a common vision of exceeding customer expectations and for being an employer of choice.  Sam will help us make this vision a reality for both the customers and the communities we serve today and will serve in the future.  We are delighted to have him join our organization.”

Tortorici noted: “It is clear Superior has a very strong franchise in its markets through a focus on localized customer service and a commitment to engaging with its customers to enhance their business and personal financial results.  This vision of growth coupled with their obvious commitment to employees are an ideal fit for my personal values.”

Doug Hutt, President of Superior Bank added: “We could not have found a better addition to our team to execute our localized strategy of providing products and services for the businesses and individuals in the Alabama and Florida markets.  With his business acumen, knowledge of the local area, and strong ties to the community, Sam’s appointment is a clear signal of Superior’s desire to further build its banking franchise in the region.”

Today’s appointment is the latest leadership addition to Superior Bank.  Several other key executives have joined the organization in the past three months, including: Jerry Powell, General Counsel, J. Cameron Terry, Chief Credit Officer, Fred Martin, Director of Human Resources, Doug Staley, Special Assets Group Manager, Dann Lee, Director of Retail Delivery and Tricia Bellamy, Director of Compliance.

Fox deFuniak, Birmingham Market President for Superior Bank, added: “I have known Sam for his entire banking career.  He brings a unique blend of knowledge and personal skills that are rare in business today.  This combination of both expertise and personality will help to ensure his success with customers and employee relationships alike.  The entire team could not be more pleased with this announcement and we look forward to working closely with him.”