Jeffrey D. Korzenik

Chief Economist/Fifth Third Commercial Bank, Fifth Third Bank, St. Petersburg

One of the nation's largest commercial banks, Fifth Third has 20,000 employees nationally, with 1,300 in Florida, as well as branches in 11 states. Korzenik, who joined the bank in 2009, oversees the allocation of more than $40 billion in assets. Fifth Third has also been named among Ethisphere’s world’s most ethical companies for several years.

EDUCATION: Princeton University (AB)

MENTOR: Bob Schulman, a retired successful Wall Street executive, entrepreneur and author, who pivoted to co-founding a wonderful nonprofit: Of Home, Family and Future. Bob taught me the financial services industry, how to dissect investment vehicles, and shared a lesson that had guided my career: the value of relentless skepticism.

READING: The Greater Good: How Philanthropy Drives the American Economy and Can Save Capitalism, by Claire Gaudiani

INSPIRATIONAL FLORIDIAN: Photographer Clyde Butcher captures the incredible natural beauty of Florida and reminds us of the importance of conserving this gift for future generations.

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: That which does not kill me makes me stronger.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: I do not consider myself a religious person, but there is no better advice than: ‘Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly with your God.’

IF I WERE GOVERNOR
“My first priority would be fostering a better public transit system.”