SunTrust Banks, Inc.today announced thatKevin S. Blairhas been named Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of SunTrust Bank, Georgia Region. He succeedsWilliam B. Haile, who previously announced plans to retire on April 30.Mr. Blair will report toE. Jenner Wood, III, SunTrust's Atlanta/Georgia Division Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, and be based in Savannah. The Georgia Region encompasses six local banking units located in the state: SunTrust Bank, Augusta; SunTrust Bank, Middle Georgia; SunTrust Bank, Savannah; SunTrust Bank,South Georgia; SunTrust Bank,Southeast Georgiaand SunTrust Bank,West Georgia.

"Kevin brings a versatile and extensive banking background as well as superior leadership skills to his new role," said Mr. Wood. "Throughout his career at SunTrust, Kevin has displayed a passion for winning, an ability to drive results and strong commitment to the community. We also greatly value the many contributionsBill Hailehas made to SunTrust over his 36 year career, and are pleased that we are able to draw upon his experience during this transition." Mr. Haile will continue to serve on the local Board of Directors of several of the Georgia Region banks.

Mr. Blair most recently served as SunTrust's Geographic Banking Administration Officer. A 13-year veteran of the Company, he has held increasingly responsible positions in retail banking, strategic finance and credit risk management including serving as Retail Line of Business Manager for SunTrust's Central Group (Georgia,Tennessee) as well as the Mid-Atlantic Group (Maryland,North Carolina,South Carolina,Virginia,West VirginiaandWashington, D.C.)

Mr. Blair graduated magna cum laude fromJames Madison UniversityinHarrisonburg, Virginiawith a bachelor's degree in Management and Economics. He earned an MBA fromGeorge Washington UniversityinWashington, D.C.with a concentration in Financial Management.