Regions Bank announced that Joel Stephens has been appointed executive managing director and head of Regions Capital Markets. Stephens joined Regions in 2008 and most recently led the Real Estate Capital Markets group. He succeeds Terry Katon who has chosen to leave the company to spend more time with his family. Katon will work with Stephens through the second half of 2019 to ensure a smooth transition for clients and associates.

“Capital Markets is a strategic focus area for Regions as our teams provide the capabilities and expertise to help our clients succeed,” said Ronnie Smith, head of Regions’ Corporate Banking Group. "With 25 years’ experience in commercial mortgage backed securities and commercial real estate lending, Joel is a seasoned professional with excellent leadership skills and a strong commitment to serving clients. I'm confident his leadership will allow us to continue to expand our Capital Markets team and offerings to grow with our clients.”

Smith continued, “Terry has made significant contributions to the company and to the Charlotte community over the years by investing in our associates and making life better for our clients, and we wish him the best in the future.”

“I’m proud of the strong foundation we have built across the Corporate Bank and the team of high-quality people who have come together at Regions to create a unique culture, focused on doing the right things in the right ways,” said Katon. “While this was a difficult decision for me, a number of factors on the personal side of my life make this the right time for me to step away from work to spend more time with my family. I will miss the outstanding people I’ve had the privilege to work with over the past 10 years and wish the Regions team continued success.”

Tim Monte, executive managing director and head of Credit Products, will assume the additional role of Charlotte Market Executive, also previously held by Katon. He will work closely with business group leaders in the Charlotte market to collectively expand Regions’ client base and make a meaningful difference in the community.

Stephens joined Regions Bank in October of 2008 as Managing Director and head of Regions Bank Real Estate Capital Markets Group in Atlanta, Ga., which includes the Bank’s HUD lending (multifamily and seniors housing), agency correspondent (FNMA and Freddie), CMBS, LIHTC distribution, and CRE loan syndications efforts.

Stephens previously led the Southeast CRE loan origination effort at Countrywide Commercial Real Estate Finance, where he oversaw offices in Atlanta and Ft. Lauderdale. Prior to joining Countrywide, Stephens spent five years in CMBS loan origination at CSFB’s Bank Alliance Group. Stephens started his career at Wachovia Bank in 1994, holding various posts in commercial real estate credit and CMBS loan origination during his tenure. He is a graduate of Miami University where he received a BS in Finance.