Ricky Ray is a 3rd generation banker and has been with Exchange Bank for over 50 years. From 1972 until 2006 Ricky served as Vice Chairman and from 2006 onward, he has served as Chairman and CEO. He has a vast resume of education spanning over 4 decades in Accounting, Business Administration and Banking Studies. Ricky was a student at Duke University, The University of Alabama where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, and Jacksonville State University where he earned his MBA. In addition, Ricky has completed the Alabama Banking School in Mobile, Alabama and the School for Bank Administration in Madison, Wisconsin. Ricky also served with the United States Army from 1971-1972.
For many years Ricky has been a pillar in the community serving in leadership positions with various non-profits and organizations in Gadsden, Alabama. He has served as President of United Way of Etowah County, the Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Alabama, and the Gadsden Cultural Arts Foundation. Ricky has also served as a board member for, Gadsden Museum of Art Foundation, Gadsden Library Foundation, the Hope Unity Fund and the Cardinal Foundation at Gadsden State Community College. He has also served for state-wide leadership positions both in the community and in his career field. He has served as a board member for the Cultural Alliance of Greater Birmingham, as well as, the President of the Alabama Bankers Association. Ricky is also very active at the First Baptist Church of Gadsden.
Ricky has proudly lead Exchange Bank for many years alongside his family. His daughter and grandson now serve as 4th and 5th generation bankers at EXB. His leadership and love for his home has made a continuous impact for Exchange Bank and for the community in which he serves.
