Fifth Third Bank has appointed longtime banking executive Scott Daigle as its new North Florida regional president, a move that follows the transition of Cary Putrino into the newly created role of region chairman.
Putrino, who has led the region for the past several years, will now focus on business development, special projects and brand ambassadorship as he helps guide the bank’s continued expansion across North Florida.
“I’ve been contemplating the next chapter for six to nine months,” Putrino said. “It felt like the right time, and I wanted to ensure we had the right successor. Scott was someone I knew from the industry. His leadership experience aligned perfectly with ours.”
Daigle, who most recently served as TD Bank’s North Florida commercial market president, brings more than 30 years of banking experience to the role. He will oversee Fifth Third’s commercial banking, wealth and asset management, and commercial payments business across Tampa Bay, Sarasota, Orlando, North Central Florida and Jacksonville.
“It’s not often that you get to work with someone who has led an organization to this level of success,” Daigle said of Putrino’s tenure. “Fifth Third has experienced significant growth in recent years. From community partnerships to plans for 50 new offices across Florida, there’s a lot of exciting momentum.”
Daigle, a Tampa native, emphasized his personal connection to the region and commitment to continuing Fifth Third’s strong community engagement. “This is a people business,” he said. “You can’t truly grow without being rooted in the community you serve. That’s one of the reasons I was drawn to Fifth Third—its partnerships and values align with my own.”
Putrino echoed those sentiments, noting the importance of the bank’s culture and reputation. “Everything we do in banking is about talent,” he said. “Bringing someone like Scott on board is huge for us. He impressed not only me but also our senior leadership in Cincinnati. I’m confident under his leadership, we’ll take this bank to the next level.”
Daigle’s appointment also coincides with growing recognition for the bank. In March, J.D. Power ranked Fifth Third No. 1 for retail banking customer satisfaction in Florida, for the second consecutive year. The bank was also rated highest in account offerings and value.
As Putrino begins his transition, he remains focused on ensuring a smooth handoff and celebrating the people who have built the bank’s reputation on the ground.
“The JD Power recognition speaks volumes about our team,” he said. “We have incredibly loyal and talented people who show up every day to serve our customers. They’re the ones driving our reputation forward.”
Fifth Third currently operates 97 full-service banking centers and employs nearly 700 people across North Florida.
“This is an exciting time,” Daigle said. “I’m honored to join a team that’s committed to growth, innovation and community. I look forward to what we’ll accomplish together.”
