Joe Diggs

Business Development Officer

As a Business Development Officer, my primary focus is expanding Fidelity Bank’s Small Business Administration lending program, with a focus on business acquisitions and commercial real estate financing. I have over 35 years of experience within the investment banking, commercial real estate, credit risk, capital markets and federal regulatory sectors. Prior to joining Fidelity Bank, I worked for First Bank as a Senior Vice President and National Sales Leader in SBA Business Development. I also held SBA lending positions with HomeTrust Bank and Capital Bank.

In addition to my financial background, I am the Founder and Chairman of Roll With the Punches Foundation, Inc., a mental health awareness 501(c)(3) organization. I am also a U.S. Army Special Operation Forces veteran and the former two-time Ringside Light Heavyweight Boxing Champion. I have also had the privilege of serving as a guest lecturer at both the University of North Carolina in Greensboro and Queens University in Charlotte.

I graduated from Loyola University in Baltimore, Maryland, with a Master of Business Administration in Finance. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude, from Strayer University in Washington, D.C. Additionally, I completed Civil Affairs training at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare College in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, specializing in Special Operations.

I currently reside in Charlotte, North Carolina with my wife, Valerie, and our two children. Outside of work, I have several hobbies that keep me busy. I am a mental health advocate and have a passion for overall health and wellness. I enjoy family time, fitness, training athletes, and mentoring young adults. If you don’t find me in the boxing gym, you may be able to find me on stage. I have performed with grammy-nominated artists, conducted studio sessions with several music recording artists, and currently gig as a percussionist from time to time. Other pass times include non-profit fundraising, reading and traveling to the Caribbean annually. In the fall, the NFL Fantasy Football league dominates my attention, along with my Washington Commanders.