Chattanooga, August 20, 2025

News Summary

Pinnacle Financial Partners has enhanced its Chattanooga operations by welcoming two experienced financial advisors, Chris George and Michael Bua. George, specializing in medical private banking and wealth management, brings 12 years of expertise, while Bua will lead the new Hixson office with 11 years of financial industry experience. Both are committed to improving client services and contributing to community initiatives. Pinnacle, known for its diverse financial services, continues to grow and is a recognized leader in the industry.

Chattanooga Welcomes New Financial Advisors at Pinnacle Financial Partners

Pinnacle Financial Partners has strengthened its Chattanooga operations by adding experienced financial advisor Chris George to its team. George, who specializes in medical private banking, wealth management, and business banking, brings 12 years of industry experience to the firm.

New Additions to the Team

In addition to George, Michael Bua has also been appointed as the office leader for the upcoming Hixson office, adding 11 years of financial industry expertise. Both George and Bua are set to play significant roles in enhancing Pinnacle’s client services in the region.

Chris George’s Background

Before joining Pinnacle, Chris George served as a senior vice president and private client relationship manager at First Horizon Bank in Chattanooga. His prior roles include wealth advisor and financial center manager at Regions Bank. George holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and is actively engaged in community service, sitting on the boards of the Chamber of Commerce and the Ronald McDonald House, and coaching with First Tee.

Community and Leadership Engagement

Chris George is a recent graduate of the Leadership Chattanooga class for 2024-2025, emphasizing his commitment to local leadership and community involvement. His dedication to client service and ability to build partnerships have been recognized by Michael Mathis, president of Pinnacle’s Chattanooga division.

Pinnacle Financial Partners Overview

Pinnacle Financial Partners is renowned for its comprehensive range of financial services, including banking, investment, trust, mortgage, and insurance products. The firm is currently ranked as the No. 1 bank in the Nashville-Murfreesboro-Franklin area as per the 2024 FDIC deposit data and has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For for nine consecutive years. It has also received accolades from American Banker as one of America’s Best Banks to Work For for 12 years running.

Market Presence and Growth

Pinnacle began its operations in Chattanooga in 2015 after acquiring CapitalMark Bank & Trust. The firm is currently the second-largest bank by deposits in the market and is recognized for its rapid growth. It has consistently been rated as one of the top workplaces in Chattanooga and has expanded strategically in urban markets across the Southeast, boasting approximately $54.8 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025.

Michael Bua’s Experience

Michael Bua, now part of the Pinnacle team, previously worked as an assistant vice president and branch manager for Regions Bank. He has also served as a financial center manager for Fifth Third Bank in Tampa, Florida. Bua holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida Southern College and is actively involved in community volunteer efforts.

Conclusion

With these new appointments, Pinnacle Financial Partners is poised to enhance its service delivery and strengthen its presence in Chattanooga. The firm is committed to building long-lasting relationships with clients and contributing positively to the community.

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Additional Resources

• Pinnacle Financial Partners Expands in Chattanooga
• Wikipedia: Chattanooga
• Pinnacle Recruits New Financial Advisors
• Google Search: Pinnacle Financial Partners
• Chattanooga’s Bank Deposits Leader
• Google Scholar: Pinnacle Financial Partners
• Pinnacle is the Second Largest Bank in Chattanooga
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Banking
• Pinnacle Recruits Office Leader
• Google News: Pinnacle Financial Partners

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER

The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.