DeQuincy native Ashton Smith has been promoted to an expanded leadership role with b1BANK as Business Development Officer (BDO) and Bank Center Manager. In addition to managing the DeQuincy Bank Center, Smith will oversee the Sulphur Bank Center.

Smith began his banking career at a young age when David Buxton, then the manager of a local bank, recruited him as a teller.

Smith credits the influence of his grandfather, the late Mac Lyle, a longtime local business leader for shaping his career choices and values.

Smith is active with the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce and has served as a pianist in the music ministry at TPC of DeQuincy for more than 15 years.

“My career remains firmly rooted in the DeQuincy community where it began,” Smith said.