May 2025

Huggins, a widely respected industry veteran, will oversee strategic growth, operational excellence, and community engagement, reinforcing The Southern Bank’s commitment to delivering best-in-class financial services across South Carolina and Georgia. The Southern Bank has appointed M.J. “J.” Huggins III as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing nearly 40 years of experience in community banking leadership to the growing financial institution. Huggins, a widely respected industry veteran, will oversee strategic growth, operational excellence, and community engagement, reinforcing The Southern Bank’s commitment to delivering best-in-class financial services across South Carolina and Georgia. “We are thrilled to welcome J. Huggins to our leadership team,” said Jamin M. Hujik, CEO of Southern Financial Corporation, and Executive Vice-Chairman of The Southern Bank. “J.’s deep understanding of community banking, combined with his proven track record of leadership and passion for serving local businesses and families, makes him the perfect choice to drive our next phase of growth.” Southern Financial Corporation Board Chairman Andy Mitchell echoed the excitement, adding: “J. has a remarkable ability to lead community banks to success. His experience, vision, and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand our footprint and enhance our customer experience.” Huggins most recently served as Director of Credit Risk Management at United Bank, following 23 successful years with Crescent Bank, later CresCom Bank, where he held key executive positions, including President, Secretary, and Director. He has also held leadership roles at Carolina First Bank and C&S Bank in Atlanta. “This was an opportunity I simply could not pass up,” said J. Huggins. “I’m excited to reunite with an exceptional team, including Jamin Hujik and Scott Frierson, who were instrumental in building CresCom’s success. Together, we have a tremendous opportunity to elevate The Southern Bank and redefine what a community bank can be.” Beyond his executive experience, Huggins is deeply involved in the banking industry and local community. He serves on the board of the Business Development Corporation of South Carolina, as well as the Wall College of Business at Coastal Carolina University, where he was previously honored as Outstanding Alumnus of the Year. A graduate of the LSU Graduate School of Banking and Coastal Carolina University, Huggins is originally from Myrtle Beach, S.C., and now resides in Charleston, S.C., with his wife. His two sons have followed in his footsteps, both working in the financial industry. With Huggins joining the team, The Southern Bank is poised for strategic expansion, enhanced customer experience, and deeper community engagement. His leadership marks an exciting new chapter for the institution as it continues its mission to strengthen local economies and serve the financial needs of its communities. To learn more about The Southern Bank’s vision for the future, visit thesouthern.bank. The Southern Bank Appoints Veteran Banker M.J. “J.” Huggins III as CEO to Lead Next Phase of Growth As the brand’s largest franchisee, Pugh’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for Workout Anytime, with a commitment to expanding access and driving future success across 200+ locations. Workout Anytime, the premium 24/7 fitness franchise with more than 200 locations and a strong commitment to affordable, accessible fitness, is proud to announce Jerry Pugh as its new owner and Chief Executive Officer. Pugh, the brand’s largest franchisee, brings with him years of firsthand experience operating successful clubs and a deeprooted connection to the brand that began more than a decade ago. “I am truly honored to step into this leadership role,” said Pugh. “As a longtime franchisee, I’ve witnessed the incredible impact Workout Anytime has on communities and its potential for growth. I’m excited to build on this strong foundation and work alongside our franchisees to explore new opportunities, elevate member experiences and drive the brand to greater success.” Founded in 1999 by Steven Strickland and John Quattrocchi, Workout Anytime has grown to more than 200 locations nationwide. The brand has built a reputation for empowering franchise owners and making high-quality fitness available to everyone. Under Pugh’s leadership, the company enters a new chapter fueled by personal experience, proven franchise success and a passion for helping others. “Jerry’s journey from franchisee to CEO is a testament to his dedication and vision,” said Strickland, co-founder of Workout Anytime. “His leadership will undoubtedly propel Workout Anytime to new heights while staying true to our mission of empowering both our members and franchisees.” This milestone for the brand is supported by strong financial and strategic partners. Financing is provided by two experienced firms. Skyline Global Partners, a Chicago-based lower middle-market private equity firm, specializes in buyouts and growth equity investments across the U.S. and Canada. The transaction was led by Ross Christianson and Nav Kalsi. Additionally, Peninsula Capital Partners, based in Detroit, has provided support through its structured junior capital solutions. Since 1995, the firm has been instrumental in supporting middle-market transactions. Chris Gessner led the transaction for Peninsula. The transition is further supported by Private Capital Advisors, with Peter Stipher leading the Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) process to ensure a smooth leadership transition and continued post-merger support. As Workout Anytime continues to expand its footprint across the country, this announcement marks an exciting new chapter for the brand. With Pugh at the helm, the company is poised for even greater growth, leveraging his deep experience and passion for the brand to drive innovation and elevate the member experience. Supported by a strong network of financial and strategic partners, Workout Anytime is committed to making highquality fitness more accessible to communities nationwide. As the brand looks to the future, this leadership transition signifies not just a moment of celebration, but the beginning of a bold vision that will shape the next phase of growth and success for both franchisees and members alike.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1MjM3