Interview with: Jason Brewer
Florida’s economy is as diverse as its regions. In this environment, community banks offer more than just capital — they bring local insight, flexible solutions and long-term relationships.
We sat down with Jason Brewer, Executive Vice President and Market President for Southwest Florida at Seacoast Bank, to learn how community banking supports Florida businesses, what sets Seacoast apart and why local decision-making still matters in a fast-moving economy.
Q: What sets community banks apart when helping Florida businesses access financing?
That’s a great question. Community banks in general, and Seacoast in particular, really have firsthand knowledge of local businesses and individuals. We don’t apply rigid national or even statewide practices to our markets — we create customized solutions that work for the local community.
Seacoast operates across 14 geographies in Florida. While united under one brand, we function as distinct markets with a deep understanding of local trends. We know seasonal patterns, demographic shifts, and economic drivers — from South Florida beach tourism to Jacksonville healthcare. In Southwest Florida specifically, we understand the construction boom and tourism-related volatility that larger banks might overlook. That local expertise allows us to serve businesses with greater relevance and agility.
Q: Why is it essential for businesses in Southwest Florida to work with a bank based in Florida?
Being based in Florida is central to our mission across the state. We live and work here, so we know the economic nuances and local industries that drive growth in each region. Seacoast understands regional factors like hurricane preparedness and tourism cycles.
Our strategy is built around helping Florida communities succeed — not just by operating here, but by calling these markets home. I live in South Florida and am originally from Tampa, so I have deep ties across the state. Many of our leaders share similar local roots, and that connection helps us deliver tailored financial solutions that genuinely support our clients. As a result, we have stronger networks, faster decision-making and an extensive commitment to the success of our clients and communities.
Q: What can a Florida-based community bank offer that a national institution typically cannot?
There are several things, beginning with local decision-makers. Each of our geographies has a high degree of autonomy and authority, which leads to faster decision-making. That’s important because we’ve all experienced long delays when working with large institutions.
At Seacoast, we flatten that response time. Also, when it comes to lending, deposits, treasury management or wealth management, we offer flexible terms. It’s not one size fits all; we customize our approach based on each client’s specific needs. We provide financial tools tailored for Florida industries — whether that’s real estate, construction, tourism or boating and water-based recreation.
Q: How does Seacoast’s “One Team” approach enhance the business banking experience?
At Seacoast, we operate as one cohesive team. Statewide, we have over 1,500 associates and more than $15 billion in assets, but we don’t let size get in the way of localized service. Our commercial, treasury and lending experts collaborate closely, delivering seamless, coordinated service. Whether we’re focused on commercial lending, SBA lending, deposits or wealth management, we work together.
We plan, we communicate and we genuinely enjoy working together. That internal coordination leads to an integrated client experience that our customers can feel and see every day.
Q: Can you give an example of how Seacoast’s local knowledge directly benefited a client?
Absolutely. One example involved a high-net-worth individual running a family office who wanted to acquire a local operating company. Financing the “blue sky” or enterprise value of a company can be tricky, but we understood the market and were able to deliver a tailored, cost-effective solution by leveraging both their balance sheet and ours.
Another case involved construction financing for a local developer on a long-term land lease with a mixed-use project. It was an unconventional deal, but I live in the neighborhood. I eat breakfast there. I understood their vision and was able to convey that internally, helping to secure a local deal with meaningful capital.
Q: What role does Seacoast play in strengthening the Southwest Florida business community?
We take our role seriously. In our Naples office alone, we have a dozen associates who are active in local chambers, professional groups and nonprofit organizations. I personally chair a nonprofit I’ve been involved with for over a decade.
Seacoast also supports business forums, financial education programs and development organizations that help small businesses grow. When our clients succeed, our communities thrive and we’re proud to be part of that ecosystem.
Q: What challenges do Florida businesses face when working with larger banks — and how does Seacoast solve them?
One of the biggest challenges with larger banks is the delayed approval process. People want to look someone in the eye and get a clear yes or at least a timely alternative. At Seacoast, we have the ability to sit down with someone, explain what we can do and respond quickly and confidently.
Another challenge is dealing with out-of-state decision-makers. Larger banks often have policies that don’t reflect the local environment, seasonal fluctuations or Florida-specific risks like hurricanes. Finally, big banks often use a one-size-fits-all approach. At Seacoast, we find the sweet spot between customization and scalability.
Q: How does Seacoast support business growth for companies looking to scale?
We work with everyone, from pre-revenue startups to companies with $100 million in annual revenue. Whether they need lines of credit, real estate capital, equipment financing or working capital — we scale our solutions up or down to fit their needs. And because we have regional and local knowledge, we deliver support in ways that align with what’s happening in the Florida market.
Q: What are the benefits of having access to senior leadership at your bank?
Access to senior leadership is one of the best parts of working at Seacoast. We have a very flat organizational structure. Our CEO’s office is just a couple of hours away. Everyone between me and the top of the org chart is accessible — by phone, text or email.
It’s not about ego, it’s about streamlining decision-making. If we’re trying to accommodate something unconventional, it’s not an automatic yes or no, it’s a conversation. And that agility helps us support clients more effectively and personally.
Q: How do Seacoast’s roots in Florida shape its long-term commitment to local businesses?
There aren’t many organizations that can say they’ve been around for nearly 100 years — but we can. We’ve been through economic cycles, challenges and changes in the industry and come out stronger.
That long-term perspective informs our decisions today and ensures that we’re thinking about our clients' futures — not just the next quarter. We’re committed to helping Florida grow, and we’re in this for the long haul.
In today’s fast-paced business climate, having a financial partner who understands your market isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. At Seacoast Bank, local leadership, personalized service and long-term commitment aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the foundation of how we help Florida businesses grow. Seacoast is proving that when it comes to business banking, local expertise makes all the difference.
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