How Derek Payne Built a Career Focused on People First

Today, Derek is a relationship consultant at Regions, managing a book of business and delivering proactive guidance to clients across the country. But his path to this role was shaped by mentorship, personal drive, and a deep belief in doing right by others.

Derek began his professional career in banking and mortgage lending, but after three years, realized it wasn’t the right fit. An opening in Regions’ Institutional Trust department caught his attention, even though he didn’t fully understand what it entailed.

“I went into it thinking it was more like private wealth,” he admitted. “But I had great mentors who helped me transition. I started as a trust assistant and worked my way into management.”

Now in a client-facing role, he focuses on delivering value through education and clarity. “It’s about listening to people and helping them with strategies to make the right choices for their future,” he said.

For Derek, the most rewarding part of his work is witnessing the impact of sound financial decisions on real lives. He recalled a moment after leading a client's education session, when an attendee pulled him aside and asked for help enrolling in his plan. “He’d just had a daughter and wanted to make sure she was protected,” Derek said. “That’s the kind of thing that sticks with you. That’s why we do this.”

Derek enrolled in Cannon’s programs as soon as the SECURE Act and SECURE 2.0 were announced. He wanted to be ready—not just to help clients stay compliant, but to help them make the most of new opportunities.

“The technical education was great, but the bigger surprise was the network,” Derek said. “I know that no matter what challenge walks through the door, I have a strong network of people I can call.”

He emphasized the real-world experience of Cannon’s instructors, particularly Larry and Myles. “They’ve worked on some of the biggest plans in the country. You’re not learning from someone who’s only ever written lesson plans. These are people who are out there doing the work.”

When he’s not advising clients, Derek and his wife can be found on water fishing, clamming, or collecting oysters near the coast. “We do all the water fishing,” he said with a grin. “It’s our happy place.”

The Paynes are also passionate about animal welfare. They support their local shelter and share their home with two rescue dogs. “It’s the cause we’ve given the most time and money to, and our dogs are just the best.”

A major milestone for Derek this year was earning a spot in Regions' Chairman’s Club, which recognizes the top 10% of performers across the bank. “It was a goal I’ve had since I started. I honestly didn’t think I’d get there early in my career. Now the goal is to do it again.”

Derek is a firm believer in being intentional with his time, his energy, and his relationships. “Whether I’m with clients or with my wife out on the water, I try to be fully present. That’s how I keep balance.”

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave behind, Derek answered simply: “I want to be remembered as someone could count on. Someone who did the right things.”

His favorite book, The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, reflects that mindset—a heartfelt story about love, loss, and loyalty, told from a dog’s point of view. And for lighter moments, he recommends The Solid Verbal, a college football podcast that always gets him laughing.

Derek’s advice to those starting out in the trust and retirement space is to remember that relationships matter.

“Our clients turn to us for our experience. We focus on meeting people where they are. Listen to their needs and come alongside them with advice and guidance. From there, relationships naturally grow over time.”

That’s exactly how Derek approaches his work; one thoughtful, human interaction at a time.