Business Council of Alabama member Regions Financial Corp.’s board of directors this week named Charles D. McCrary as chairman of the board effective Jan. 1, 2019.
McCrary, currently Regions’ Lead Independent Director, will succeed Executive Chairman O. B. Grayson Hall, Jr., who is retiring from Regions and from its board on Dec. 31, the company announced.
McCrary also will also serve as the chair of the board of directors of Regions Bank, the company said.
“Charles is a thoughtful and dedicated leader,” Regions President and CEO John Turner said. “In his capacity as Lead Independent Director, he has provided valuable guidance that has allowed Regions to deliver sustainable, long-term growth. I look forward to continuing to work with Charles as we execute on Regions’ strategic plan and elevate our performance as a company.”
Turner remarked about Hall’s decades of service to Regions.
“During his 38-year career with the company, Grayson has maintained a steady focus on meeting customer needs, and through his leadership, Regions has become a stronger and better bank positioned for long-term success,” Turner said. “We appreciate his significant contributions and wish him continued success as he retires.”
Hall joined Turner on McCrary’s appointment.
“I have had the privilege of working closely with Charles for many years, and our company has benefited from his personal integrity and commitment to excellence,” Hall said.
“Regions plays an important role in meeting the financial needs of our customers and communities,” McCrary said. “We believe that maintaining strong corporate governance is crucial to achieving our company’s mission and making life better for all of our stakeholders.”
McCrary served as president and CEO of Alabama Power Co. from 2001 to 2014 and served as chairman of Alabama Power until May 2014. In a career spanning more than 40 years, he held various positions of increased responsibility within Alabama Power and its parent company, Southern Company.
McCrary served on the board of AmSouth Bancorporation, a predecessor to Regions. He earned an engineering degree from Auburn University and a law degree from Birmingham School of Law.