Tom Rouse, Florence Market President, joined First Reliance in January 2005. Mr. Rouse's primary responsibilities include growing the Florence Market, while developing business and personal banking relationships.

Mr. Rouse has more than 30 years of banking experience, during which he has held numerous management and executive leadership positions throughout the Carolinas. Before assuming leadership of First Reliance Bank in Florence, his career path included Installment Loan Manager, Branch Manager with Northwestern Bank, Vice President and City Executive with Nations Bank (now Bank of America), Vice President and City Executive with First Citizens Bank and Senior Consultant for BLC.

Mr. Rouse graduated from the University of Alabama, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree. Mr. Rouse has also received several professional certifications including Leadership, Sales and Commercial Loan Officer Development.

As an active member of the community, Rouse has served on numerous boards and committees in the communities throughout his career including Florence Leadership, United Way, Florence Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club.