Palmetto Citizens adds two new executive leaders

A Midlands-based bank has added to its C-Suite lineup.

Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union added new senior leaders to its executive team: Michelle Hardy as general counsel and chief administrative officer and Matthew Maynard as chief credit officer.

“Michelle and Matthew bring extensive expertise and strong leadership that will be instrumental as Palmetto Citizens continues to grow and deliver exceptional service to our members,” Robert Dozier, Palmetto Citizens president and CEO, said in a news release. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to our team at such a pivotal time in our organization’s history. Their leadership will play a key role as we prepare for our next chapter and deepen our connection with the communities we serve.”

Hardy has more than two decades of legal and administrative organizational leadership, according to the release. As general counsel and chief administrative officer, she oversees legal, corporate compliance, human resources and administrative functions, while serving as a key advisor to the CEO and board of directors.

Before joining Palmetto Citizens, she served as vice president for advancement at Central Carolina Community Foundation. She has also held numerous leadership positions at the University of South Carolina and Newberry College.

“I am excited to step into this role during such a transformative time for Palmetto Citizens,” said Hardy in the release. “The organization is growing strategically, expanding its reach and making a broader impact, all while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and member service. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that’s embracing innovation while remaining grounded in its core mission.”

Maynard brings extensive experience in commercial lending and credit strategy. As chief credit officer, he leads the development and execution of credit policy, underwriting standards, portfolio management and lending risk oversight, the release stated. He plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction of consumer, mortgage and commercial lending through his leadership in credit administration.

Over the course of his career, he has held leadership positions at TD Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers, L.L.P. (PwC), and most recently First Citizens Bank, where he served as regional credit officer.

“What stands out to me about Palmetto Citizens is the strong organizational culture and deep commitment to both its members and the community,” Maynard said in the release. “The longevity of the institution also speaks volumes about the stability, leadership and trust that have been built over time. I look forward to helping shape the next phase of growth in ways that continue to strengthen the organization for the long term.”

Earlier this year, Palmetto Citizens broke ground on its new five-story, 100,000-square-foot headquarters at the corner of Sumter and Lady streets in Columbia — the largest office development in the downtown area in more than 15 years, according to the release. The facility is expected to open in early 2027 and will house Palmetto Citizens’ administrative offices, operations center and downtown Columbia branch, along with community meeting spaces, a restaurant space and a 325-space parking garage.