Planters First Bank Welcomes Two New Members to Its Board of Directors
Friday, August 7th, 2026
Benjamin Sheppard McLeod Jr. and David McCrory bring financial, engineering, and entrepreneurial leadership to the board.
Planters First Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Benjamin Sheppard McLeod Jr. and David McCrory to its Board of Directors, reinforcing the bank's commitment to local leadership and exceptional service across Middle Georgia.
Founded in 1896, Planters First Bank is a Georgia-based community bank with approximately $485 million in assets. For 130 years, it has grown by building local relationships, making sound financial decisions, and investing in the communities it serves — the same values that Mr. McLeod and Mr. McCrory bring to the board.
“These gentlemen live and work across the markets that we do, and their insights and experience will be a welcome addition to our board,” said Robert Way, Board Chairman of Planters First Bancorp.
Benjamin Sheppard McLeod Jr. is an accomplished financial advisor and business leader with more than 27 years of experience in financial services. Over the course of his career, he has advised individuals, families, and businesses as a Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, and Pesta Private Wealth.
In addition to his advisory work, McLeod is Managing Partner of Canton Wealth Management and owner of SL Sausage, reflecting an entrepreneurial drive that complements his client work. A longtime Perry resident, he is committed to helping the people and businesses of Middle Georgia achieve durable financial results — a relationship-first, stewardship-minded approach that mirrors the bank's own mission.
David McCrory brings more than 30 years of engineering and business leadership to the board. Since 1993, he has served as an Engineering Supervisor at Robins Air Force Base, where he has built a reputation for technical depth, operational discipline, and steady leadership.
In addition to his engineering career, McCrory owns and manages two businesses in Middle Georgia: Project Development & Construction and BuildStead Services. He also acts as the owner and advisor for DEAMM Investments. This range of experience gives him a valuable perspective on strategic planning, innovation, and disciplined growth—combining technical expertise with entrepreneurial insight, making him well-suited for board activities.
“David and Benji join us at an exciting moment,” said Eli Tinsley, President and Chief Executive Officer of Planters First Bank. “As we work to be the best community bank in Middle Georgia, their experience will help us make sharper strategic decisions and serve our customers even better. We're building on a 130-year legacy, and leaders like these are how we carry it into the future.”
As Planters First Bank looks ahead, its focus remains unchanged: serving customers with integrity, supporting local businesses, investing in its communities, and building relationships that last across generations.
