Jesse Stakes

About Jesse Stakes

I’m an enterprise sales and business development leader with a track record of opening new markets, building high‑value client relationships, and closing complex, multi‑million‑dollar deals across commercial banking, payments, and B2B financial services. Since 2018, I’ve effectively operated as a full‑cycle enterprise seller—prospecting, structuring solutions, negotiating terms, and managing long‑term relationships with CEOs, CFOs, and business owners.My career has centered on helping companies grow by understanding their needs, solving complex problems, and delivering strategic financial and operational solutions. I’ve built and managed a $360M+ book of business, led market expansions in North Florida for multiple institutions, and consistently developed strong referral ecosystems with advisors, CPAs, and industry partners.I take a consultative, relationship‑driven approach to sales—one built on trust, clarity, and long‑term value. Whether I’m opening a new territory, building a pipeline from scratch, or deepening existing relationships, I focus on creating meaningful impact for clients and the organizations I represent.Outside of my day‑to‑day work, I host Making Cents of It All, a business‑focused show that highlights entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and the people shaping our community. It’s become a powerful platform for connection, storytelling, and business development.

Experience

1. Senior Vice President Commercial Banking

   Bank OZK

   Oct 2025 — Present · Jacksonville, FL, US

   As Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at Bank OZK, I lead strategic relationship development, credit structuring, and portfolio growth across the Jacksonville market. My focus is on delivering high‑performance lending solutions that help businesses scale, invest, and strengthen their financial position while upholding the disciplined credit culture that defines Bank OZK.I originate and manage complex commercial credit facilities—including owner‑occupied real estate, investment CRE, C&I lending, construction financing, and tailored treasury solutions—while maintaining a strong emphasis on risk management, cash‑flow analysis, and long‑term client value. My approach blends deep financial expertise with a consultative mindset, ensuring clients receive clarity, responsiveness, and strategic guidance at every stage of their growth.In this role, I also work closely with internal credit, underwriting, and executive leadership to structure sound, committee‑ready transactions that align with both client objectives and the bank’s performance standards. I am committed to building a high‑quality portfolio, expanding Bank OZK’s market presence, and fostering relationships that strengthen the business community across Northeast Florida.At the core of my work is a belief that commercial banking is a partnership. I strive to be a trusted advisor to business owners, developers, and entrepreneurs—helping them navigate opportunities, mitigate risk, and achieve meaningful, sustainable growth.

Education

• Tallahassee State College

  AA, Business Administration and Management, General

  2001 — 2003

• University of North Florida

  Bachelor's, Business

  2000 — 2005

Skills

• Healthcare
• Business Development
• Sales Management
• Direct Sales
• Finance
• Sales Process
• Payroll
• Banking
• Strategic Planning
• Public Speaking
• Cold Calling
• Microsoft Office
• Sales
• Marketing Strategy
• Sales Presentations
• Payroll Services
• Time Management
• Marketing
• Leadership
• Sales Operations
• Customer Retention
• Customer Service
• Coaching
• Business-to-Business (B2b)
• Team Building
• Management
• Credit
• Account Management
• B2b
• Small Business
• Selling
• Payroll Taxes
• Process Management
• Human Resources
• Salesforce.com
• Training
• New Business Development