Stuart Forsyth
Welcome to the digital home of Stuart Forsyth, a seasoned executive in Tampa’s banking industry. This platform showcases Stuart’s dedication to enhancing the banking experience through his work in commercial and community banking, portfolio management, and strategic leadership. Beyond driving financial success, Stuart Forsyth is committed to fostering innovation within the industry and providing support to clients, colleagues, and the local community. Drawing on his extensive experience and forward-thinking approach, Stuart Forsyth of Tampa offers valuable insights and guidance for those navigating the complexities of banking, finance, and community engagement.
About Stuart Forsyth
Stuart Forsyth is a highly accomplished executive with over 36 years of banking experience, a deep commitment to community service, and a distinguished record of leadership in the financial industry. His career has spanned across some of the most significant financial markets in the United States, including Los Angeles, Detroit, Flint, Dallas, and Tampa. With a career defined by strategic vision, operational excellence, and community engagement, Stuart has built a reputation as a transformative leader capable of driving sustainable growth and fostering innovation within commercial and community banks.
Early Life and Education
Stuart Forsyth’s journey in finance began at Albion College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Michigan, where he graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. While at Albion, Stuart Forsyth played football, a reflection of his drive, teamwork, and leadership skills that would later define his professional career. He furthered his education by earning an MBA in Finance and Management from the University of Detroit, equipping him with the analytical and managerial expertise that would serve as the foundation for his future success in the banking industry.
Career Path and Banking Leadership
Stuart Forsyth’s illustrious banking career took off at Comerica Bank, where he worked in various locations, including Dallas, Los Angeles, and Detroit, gaining comprehensive experience in small business banking, private banking, and specialized industries. His formal credit training at Comerica provided him with the technical skills to excel in financial analysis, asset management, middle market banking, and risk mitigation, allowing him to rise quickly through the ranks. This early experience set the stage for his future leadership roles in the banking sector.
Over the next two decades, Stuart Forsyth’s career flourished, with notable stints at Republic Bank and Citizens Bank. At Republic Bank, Stuart served as Regional President, overseeing community banking services across multiple Michigan cities, including Flint, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. In this role, he managed eight community bank regions, leading commercial, residential mortgage, consumer lending, and branch retail services. His leadership style, which emphasized collaboration and innovation, helped him successfully lead a team of 65 employees across diverse banking functions.
At Citizens Bank, Stuart Forsyth held the position of President, Commercial & Community Banking, where he spearheaded the bank’s operations in Mid-Michigan, managing $4 billion in assets and overseeing 44 retail branches. His keen business acumen and ability to forge strong relationships with regulators, clients, and employees earned him recognition as one of the top-performing leaders in the bank’s history. During his tenure, he maintained a deposit base of $4 billion while driving consistent 10% growth year-over-year. Stuart Forsyth’s ability to align strategic goals with community engagement initiatives, such as his board directorships with the United Way and other regional organizations, further strengthened the bank’s position within the community.
Senior Leadership and Transformational Impact
Stuart Forsyth’s most recent leadership roles at HomeBanc and Woodforest National Bank highlight his ability to drive organizational transformation and deliver significant business growth. As Chief Operating Officer & Market President at HomeBanc, Stuart Forsyth provided visionary leadership that contributed to the bank’s exponential growth. Under his direction, the bank expanded from $235 million to over $1 billion in assets within a few short years. He was instrumental in the development of six additional branches and spearheaded a growth strategy that increased loan closings from $12 million to $150 million between 2011 and 2015. His ability to foster a consultative sales culture and strengthen client relationships was key to the bank’s success, with net income soaring from $2 million to $6 million during his tenure.
At Woodforest National Bank, Stuart Forsyth took on the challenge of launching a loan production office (LPO) from scratch. As Executive Vice President, he recruited and led a highly skilled team of loan producers, credit analysts, and operational staff. His leadership was crucial in building the bank’s presence in the Southeast, with assets growing by $300 million by the end of the fourth year. Stuart Forsyth’s efforts not only boosted the bank’s financial performance but also strengthened its brand recognition in the region.
Commitment to Philanthropy and Community Service
Stuart Forsyth’s commitment to giving back to the community is a core aspect of his personal and professional identity. Throughout his career, he has consistently aligned himself with philanthropic initiatives to uplift underserved populations. His involvement with organizations such as the Rotary Club, United Way, and various local health and economic coalitions in Michigan and Florida underscores his dedication to positively impacting society.
Stuart Forsyth of Tampa has served on several boards of directors, including the United Way Campaign for Genesee County, the Senior Citizens Center, and the Uptown Reinvestment Corporation. His leadership extended beyond the financial sector, as he helped guide nonprofits and community development organizations to success, ensuring that they had the resources and support needed to fulfill their missions.
In Tampa, Stuart Forsyth and his wife are deeply committed to supporting causes that resonate with their values. They proudly support Academy Prep in Tampa, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality education to low-income students. The couple is also involved with Equality Florida, Feeding Tampa Bay, and the ReliaQuest Bowl (formerly the Outback Bowl). These organizations reflect Stuart’s belief in the importance of education, equality, and community well-being, and his philanthropic contributions have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Personal and Professional Development
Stuart Forsyth’s pursuit of knowledge and professional development is a testament to his dedication to lifelong learning. He is currently pursuing a Juris Master in Financial Regulation & Compliance from Florida State University College of Law, further enhancing his expertise in the regulatory and legal aspects of the financial industry. This commitment to continuous education ensures that Stuart Forsyth remains at the forefront of industry trends and regulations, enabling him to lead with confidence and integrity in an ever-evolving financial landscape.
Stuart Forsyth’s career is a shining example of leadership, dedication, and service. His extensive experience in the banking industry, combined with his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community engagement, has made him a respected figure in both the financial sector and the communities he serves. Whether leading multi-billion-dollar banking operations or volunteering his time and resources to charitable causes, Stuart Forsyth of Tampa exemplifies the qualities of a true leader who is passionate about making a positive impact. His ability to navigate complex challenges, foster team collaboration, and drive meaningful results will undoubtedly continue to shape his legacy for years to come.
Thank you for visiting the online portfolio of Stuart Forsyth, a distinguished leader in the banking industry with a career that spans over three decades of expertise in commercial banking, portfolio management, and strategic leadership. With extensive experience in driving financial growth and implementing innovative strategies, Stuart Forsyth of Tampa has made significant contributions to both seasoned professionals and emerging talent in the banking sector. In addition to his work in finance, Stuart Forsyth is actively involved in supporting the community through mentorship and advocacy. His approach combines professional excellence with a commitment to fostering growth and development, benefiting individual clients and the broader financial landscape.