SAVANNAH — Ameris Bank has named Chris Raiford as branch manager of the Richmond Hill location.

In the role, Raiford will work to facilitate the daily operations of the branch, with a focus on expanding consumer portfolios and growing business opportunities.

"Chris is a proven leader in the banking industry," said Greater Savannah Market President Jenny Gentry. "His commitment and dedication to both his team and clients are evident in all aspects of his work."

With more than a decade of experience in banking, Raiford has served as a financial consultant and business banker at Wachovia and Wells Fargo Bank, assistant vice president and branch manager at Wells Fargo Bank, and most recently as assistant vice president and branch manager as SunTrust Bank.

"Chris’ expertise and exceptional customer service skills are a welcome addition to Ameris Bank," Brad Brookshire, president of the bank’s Richmond Hill branch, said.

Raiford, currently completing his doctorate in business administration, earned his bachelor of arts in consumer sciences from the University of Georgia and his masters of business administration from St. Leo University.

He was recognized as Top Branch Manager of Wells Fargo Bank Georgia in 2012, and was SunTrust’s Most Valuable Team award winner in April 2015.

Headquartered in Moultrie, Ameris Bank has more than $6 billion in assets. Ameris Bancorp, the parent company, is traded on the NASDAQ under ABCB.

The bank offers a range of services, including traditional banking and lending products and solutions, treasury and cash management services, and mortgage and refinancing solutions.