Kelly Tyler Women in Business Award 2026

Kelly Tyler

First Citizens Bank

SVP, Manager of Retail Banking

Myrtle Beach

Kelly Tyler is a financial services leader in the Grand Strand with a proven track record in retail and business banking, known for driving growth by strengthening local micro economy. She brings expertise in building community focused strategies, leveraging strong partnership with nonprofit organizations to expand financial access and inclusion. Passionate about empowering individuals and small business, she leads with a collaborative approach that aligns business performance with meaningful social impact.

How do you define leadership?

Leadership is less about a title and authority and more about what moves because you showed up. Framed up around impact, collaboration, and being a connector.

What makes you an effective leader? What are you still working on?

Lead with impact, build trust quickly, translate vision into action, and making collaboration productive.

Is there a mentor who has meant a lot to you in your career?

I am blessed to have had many formal and informal mentors over my career. I value the offering of perspective, opening doors, and the challenge they gave me to operate at a higher level.

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

Falling short for a client or my team is my greatest fear as leader.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?

Surround yourself by people that think differently than you.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

My greatest accomplishment so far has been the ability to lead initiatives that help expand access to financial services in the Grand Strand.

What one thing have you learned that has served you well over the years?

Slow down to move faster.

If there is one thing you could go back and do differently what would it be?

Today, I am much more deliberate about having routines that embrace diverse voices and thoughts. I have learned that stronger outcomes and impact occurs when people are contributing.