United Community Banks Appoints New CFO Tom Speir

What Happened
United Community Banks, Inc. announced on its Form 8-K that the Board approved hiring Tom Speir as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective September 8, 2026. Current CFO Jefferson L. Harralson will continue in the CFO role through the Transition Date and remain employed to assist with an orderly handover through December 31, 2026. The company furnished a press release on August 19, 2026 announcing the appointment.

Key Details

• Effective date: Tom Speir assumes CFO responsibilities on September 8, 2026; Jefferson L. Harralson remains employed through December 31, 2026 to support transition.
• Background: Speir (age 44) has 20+ years in financial services and, since April 2026, served as Head of Investor Relations, Strategy & Corporate Development at Regions Financial Corp.; holds a B.S. in Business Management (Finance) from NC State.
• Compensation package for Speir: $600,000 base salary; annual target bonus 80% of base (2026 bonus at 100% of target, subject to company performance multiplier); $215,000 sign-on bonus; annual target equity = 115% of base; sign-on equity valued at $450,000 vesting 50% per year over 2 years.
• Additional benefits: $15,000 auto allowance, $20,000 club dues, temporary housing $3,000/month (max 9 months), relocation reimbursement up to $30,000. Speir will be party to the company’s standard Change in Control Continuity Agreement. The filing states no related-party transactions or family relationships requiring additional disclosure.

Why It Matters
A CFO transition is a material leadership change that can affect financial strategy, reporting and investor relations. United Community Banks has provided for overlap and an extended handover (through Dec. 31, 2026) to promote continuity. The disclosed compensation and equity incentives show how the bank intends to align Speir’s interests with company performance. Retail investors should note the effective date, transition timeline and that the company furnished a press release on August 19, 2026.