At Southern Bank, relationships are built on more than numbers — they’re built on years of
shared work, trust, and connection. For Wilmington-based East Coast Contracting, that
partnership began with a handshake and has only grown stronger over the past decade and a
half.
“In 15 years, we’ve more than doubled in size and Southern Bank has been there every step of
the way,” East Coast Contracting President Jennifer Hobbs remarked.
A Partnership Built on Trust
From the beginning, the relationship was grounded in trust and ease, with Hobbs noting that her
first impression of her Southern banking partner was “incredibly genuine and just a good
person.”
That trust only deepened over time as both the business and its needs evolved. Through
economic downturns, industry shifts, and even a pandemic, Southern remained a steady
partner.
Evolving and Growing Together
As East Coast Contracting grew, so did the complexity of its work — and Southern helped
support that evolution.
“We were able to transition from doing a lot of private work to public work,” Hobbs said. “And
Southern Bank helped us in terms of having a lot of credit for the bonding company to be
bonded to, to bid that municipal work.”
With that growth came the need for more efficient tools and processes.
“Everything we’ve needed from Southern Bank as far as growing with us — remote deposit,
Positive Pay — those types of things have saved us time as far as administrative work and
really made business a lot easier,” Hobbs said.
More Than a Bank — a Community
For Hobbs, the relationship extends far beyond day-to-day banking. It’s about showing up — for
businesses, for families, and for the broader community.
“Southern Bank is at our gala every year,” Hobbs said. “You’ve supported our family and our
walks every year with your family — it’s a great relationship.”
That level of involvement reflects a deeper connection — one that supports both business
success and personal milestones.
Rooted in Strength and Connection
Southern’s long-standing presence also brings a sense of stability and confidence.
“Growing up in a small town in eastern North Carolina, Southern Bank was a staple in our area,”
Hobbs said. “The people who are still in control are people that come from the same walk of life
that my husband and I come from, and appreciate the same values that we have.”
That legacy continues to matter today as Southern celebrates its 125th anniversary.
“We feel very comfortable keeping money in Southern Bank. The fact that 125 years means
you’re not going to sell out tomorrow or go out of business … You know the game, you know
what your people need, and you’re serving those needs,” Hobbs added.
What started as a business relationship has become something more — a partnership built on
consistency, trust, and shared success.
“A win-win relationship.” Hobbs said.
At Southern, your story, like Hobbs’, matters. Whether you’re building a business, expanding your team, or preparing for the next generation, we’ll be by your side with local guidance and modern solutions. Explore Southern’s business banking options today.
