Meet the Board: Q & A with LBA's Southwest Region Representative John Fusilier of The Evangeline Bank & Trust

As John serves as LBA's Southwest Region Representative this year, he tells us about the biggest challenges he thinks banks face today and his goals for the Association for the upcoming year.

We quizzed John below, but first, take a look at his impressive CV:

• Began his career in banking 32 years ago as a Bank Examiner for the Office of Financial Institutions in 1986, during a time where there were many troubled banks and bank failures. 
• Served as CEO of two separate banks. The first bank was sold to Hancock Bank in the late 90’s and more recently, he was CEO of First National Bank in DeRidder for over 12 years.  
• Since May 2017, he has served as Chief Credit Officer of The Evangeline Bank and Trust Company in Ville Platte.
• Has a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Finance from McNeese State University.

Q & A with John Fusilier 

LBA: How did you first get into banking?

Fusilier: My goal throughout college was to have a career in banking. The opportunity to become a Bank Examiner with OFI launched my career. My tenure as a Bank Examiner during the mid-80’s provided excellent training for a young banker. I learned the dos and don’ts (mostly don’ts) of commercial banking.

LBA: What attracted you to serve on LBA’s board?

Fusilier: Over the last several years the banking industry has been inundated with new regulations. Community banks through no fault of their own, are burdened with compliance costs and procedures that hamper our ability to serve customers that we have banked for years. The LBA is the best option for Louisiana bankers to have their voices heard. Meetings with elected officials and trips to Washington are the best way for regulatory agencies to hear the industry’s perspective on various issues.

LBA: What are the biggest challenges faced by banks today?

Fusilier: Although excessive regulation is always a major challenge, I believe Fintech companies and their technology are and will continue to be the major challenge to the banking industry. Customers, especially young customers, want the convenience of banking without walking into traditional banks. These companies are stealthily taking our customers and, in many cases, doing so without our knowledge. The ability to compete in this high-tech arena is critical to banking’s survival.

LBA: What are your goals for the Association for the upcoming year?

Fusilier: My goals for the Association in the upcoming year are to continue lobbying efforts to reduce burdensome regulations and provide the best source of education for community bankers.

LBA: How do you spend your free time?

Williams: I love hunting and fishing. In the spring and summer, I am on the lake fishing bass. In the fall and winter, I am working my retriever in a dove field or in a duck blind.