Tampa Bay’s business scene is booming, and with it comes a growing community of successful professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs. These individuals demand more than cookie-cutter banking solutions. As the market evolves, so do the financial needs of Tampa’s professionals. This is where private banking makes the difference.
What Private Client Means in Tampa’s Competitive Market
Oliviana Catrone, SVP Private Client Team Leader at Amerant Bank, recently appeared on Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend. She painted a clear picture of what private banking should look like in today’s market. Catrone explained, “Private clients need a high-touch level of service,” going beyond what traditional banking can offer.
Unlike the experience of calling a 1-800 number, private banking in Tampa means having a dedicated banker. They know your name, understand your goals, and are available when you need them most. For professionals, executives, wealthy individuals, and family foundations in Tampa, this personalized approach is essential.

The Tampa Advantage: Why Location Matters for Private Banking
Tampa’s unique position as a rapidly growing financial hub makes it an ideal market for private banking services. The city’s diverse economy creates a dynamic environment where successful individuals need sophisticated financial solutions. This applies from the tech startups in downtown Tampa to established businesses in Westshore.
The local expertise that comes with Tampa-based private banking can make a significant difference in achieving financial objectives. This includes executives at major companies, successful entrepreneurs with startups, and those managing family foundations.
When Tampa Professionals Need Private Banking Most
Catrone identified a crucial timing factor for Tampa residents considering private banking:
“If you’re looking at a life-changing event within the next 3 months—like expanding your business, adding to a retirement or college fund—having a private advisor is important when you’re making those types of decisions.”
This timeline is particularly relevant in Tampa’s fast-paced business environment, where opportunities and challenges can emerge quickly. Typical scenarios where Tampa professionals benefit from private banking include:
Business Expansion: Tampa’s commercial real estate market is on the rise, and new business opportunities are emerging regularly. Entrepreneurs need quick access to capital and expert financial guidance.
Retirement Planning: Tampa continues to attract executives from around the country. Sophisticated retirement planning becomes crucial for maintaining lifestyle goals in Florida’s tax-advantaged environment.
Education Funding: Because of prestigious universities nearby, Tampa families focus on education. Navigating college funding strategies requires expert guidance on tax implications and investment options.
Investment Management: Tampa’s growing wealth concentration means more individuals need professional management of complex investment portfolios and help in investment strategies.
The Personal Touch That Sets Tampa’s Private Banking Apart
What makes Amerant Bank’s approach particularly compelling for Tampa clients is its commitment to building teams around clients. Rather than forcing clients to adapt to rigid banking structures, it personalizes the plan to the client’s needs. Amerant may be a $10 billion institution with over 700 employees. However, it maintains the personalized service that Tampa’s discerning clients expect.
“My favorite part of being a Private Banker is getting to know people,” Catrone shared. “I appreciate getting to know my clients on a personal level and being in close contact with them.” This philosophy resonates strongly in Tampa, where business relationships often extend beyond the boardroom and into the community.
Amerant Bank’s Growing Presence in Tampa Bay
Tampa represents a new market for Amerant Bank. Amerant’s expansion into the area demonstrates a commitment to serving the region’s growing population of high-net-worth individuals. The bank is actively expanding its services to meet the diverse needs of Tampa clients. It offers a range of banking solutions, including personal banking, business banking, commercial services, private client services, and more.
This approach is particularly valuable in Tampa’s deeply connected business community. Successful people often need seamless coordination between their personal wealth management, business banking, and commercial real estate financing. Ameran has wealth management professionals, financial advisors, and client relationship managers available to help.
Efficient Service Without the Wait
One of the most significant advantages Catrone highlighted is the efficiency of their private banking team. Tampa professionals are accustomed to fast-paced decision-making and don’t have time for lengthy delays in financial services. Amerant’s dedicated management team structure ensures that private clients receive prompt, seamless care when they need it most.
This efficiency becomes crucial during Tampa’s busy seasons. The city’s calendar remains full for several reasons. Many seasonal residents pass through, the real estate market is busy, and numerous business conferences and networking events occur.
The Future of Private Banking in Tampa
As Tampa becomes a major financial center in the Southeast, the need for advanced private banking services will increase. The city’s attractive tax environment, growing business community, and lifestyle advantages continue to attract successful individuals who require more than standard banking services.
For wealthy individuals in Tampa, family foundations and business leaders, choosing between traditional banking and private banking is crucial. They need a partner who understands personal goals, long-term goals, and unique opportunities within Tampa’s market.
Private bankers can help if you are growing a business in Tampa, planning for retirement in Florida, or managing a family foundation. A banker who knows your goals and understands your needs can make a major difference in reaching your financial goals.
Interested in learning more about private banking services in the Tampa Bay area? Contact Amerant Bank’s Private Client team to discover how personalized banking can support your financial planning goals.
Watch the full interview: