Crews Bank & Trust names Justin Fussell Community Banking Executive

WAUCHULA, Fla., Aug. 26, 2026 — Crews Bank & Trust has named Justin Fussell Executive Vice President, Community Banking Executive. Fussell will continue serving as Area President of DeSoto and Hardee counties. In his expanded role, Fussell will provide oversight and direct leadership for the Bank’s legacy regions, including Englewood-Boca Grande, Charlotte County, Highlands County and Sarasota County. The appointment recognizes his ability to coach, connect and build trust across teams while fostering collaboration and engagement throughout the organization.

“Justin has consistently demonstrated the kind of leadership that strengthens teams and deepens relationships,” said M.W. “Larry” McLaren IV, Chief Banking Officer for Crews Bank & Trust. “His ability to bring people together, support market leaders and keep our focus on customers and communities makes him well suited for this expanded role.”

A proud seventh-generation Floridian, Fussell brings deep local roots and a strong commitment to community leadership. He has experience in commercial lending, financial management and marketing and remains actively involved in numerous local organizations, including the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees, the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce, the DeSoto County Economic Development Advisory Council, youth agricultural programs, the Arcadia Rodeo Association and Mt. Ephraim Baptist Church. Fussell earned an Associate of Arts degree from Santa Fe College and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida, with minors in management, sales in agribusiness and leadership.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our legacy regions and work alongside the talented teams who serve our customers every day,” Fussell said. “What makes Crews Bank & Trust special is our people and our commitment to the communities we call home. I look forward to connecting the strengths of our markets, supporting our employees and continuing our purpose of building relationships that span generations.”

As community banking executive, Fussell will work closely with regional and market leaders to advance the Bank’s customer-focused approach, support employee development and promote consistent communication across the organization’s legacy markets.

To download the above news release as a Word document and view and download image, please click the button below.