United Community Names Paige Collier as Atlanta Metro President

Collier brings over 30 years of experience to lead United's growing presence in the Atlanta market.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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United Community, a top 100 U.S. financial institution, has appointed Paige Collier as the new state president for the Metro Atlanta area. Collier brings over 30 years of experience in commercial real estate and middle-market banking, as well as an extensive network of relationships across Atlanta's business community. She will succeed Doug Higgins, who is retiring after leading United's Atlanta team for many years.

Why it matters

Collier's appointment is a significant addition to United Community's leadership team as the company looks to continue growing its presence in the dynamic and fast-growing Atlanta market. Her deep market knowledge and proven leadership experience will help United expand its footprint and better serve the local community.

The details

Paige Collier steps into the role of Atlanta Metro president with more than 30 years of experience in commercial real estate and middle-market banking. She is known for her respected leadership and extensive network of relationships across Atlanta's business community. Collier will succeed Doug Higgins, who is retiring after leading United's Atlanta team for many years. Higgins will work closely with Collier and the Atlanta team through the end of April 2026 to ensure a smooth transition for customers, teammates, and community partners.

  • Paige Collier was named the new Atlanta Metro president on March 4, 2026.
  • Doug Higgins will retire at the end of April 2026 after leading United's Atlanta team for many years.

The players

Paige Collier

The new state president for the Metro Atlanta area at United Community, bringing over 30 years of experience in commercial real estate and middle-market banking.

Doug Higgins

The outgoing leader of United Community's Atlanta team, who is retiring after a distinguished career.

Rich Bradshaw

The president and chief banking officer at United Community.

United Community

A top 100 U.S. financial institution committed to building stronger communities and improving the financial health and well-being of its customers.

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What they’re saying

“Paige has a rare combination of deep market knowledge, proven leadership and genuine care for the communities she serves. She has spent her career helping Atlanta grow – and she will help United grow right alongside it. We couldn't be more excited to have her on our team.”

— Rich Bradshaw, President and Chief Banking Officer, United Community (desertsun.com)

“Atlanta is a dynamic, fast-growing market, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the community I call home. United's deep roots – and belief that banking is about people – are what drew me here, and I'm excited to partner with our exceptional team to help this market continue to thrive.”

— Paige Collier (desertsun.com)

What’s next

Paige Collier will officially take over as the Atlanta Metro president on May 1, 2026, following Doug Higgins' retirement at the end of April.

The takeaway

Paige Collier's appointment as the new Atlanta Metro president for United Community underscores the company's commitment to growing its presence in the dynamic Atlanta market. Collier's deep market knowledge and proven leadership experience will be invaluable as United continues to expand and better serve the local community.