This article originally appeared in the June 2026 print edition of the Birmingham Business Journal. You can read the story online at the Birmingham Business Journal (subscription not required) or continue below. This article has been shared with the permission of the Journal.
What is your professional background, and what is your new role at Oakworth?
Prior to Oakworth, I served as a tax, trust and estate planning attorney at the law firm of Dentons Sirote, P.C. and as the Chairperson of the Trusts, Estate & Wealth Preservation Practice Group. I also served on the Board of Directors.
In my practice, I worked primarily with closely held business owners and their families on tax, succession and generational wealth transfer planning, and also with fiduciaries in the administration of trusts and estates.
At Oakworth, I’ll work with similar clients, collaborating with client advisors across all disciplines—commercial banking, private banking and wealth management—in all four of our markets—Central Alabama, South Alabama, Middle Tennessee, and Central Carolinas. Together we’ll develop thoughtful strategies and support implementation for complex relationships. I look forward to working alongside a client’s outside team members (attorneys, CPAs, and other financial partners) to help achieve the client’s goals.
What drew you to Oakworth?
I worked with Oakworth for many years as a partner serving shared clients and experiencing firsthand Oakworth’s commitment to exceptional client service. That approach felt very similar to the way I approached client service in the practice of law. So, at the outset there was a tremendous amount of familiarity there. Oakworth’s dedication to serving clients with care and intention stands out.
Tell us a little more about your perspective on leadership.
To lead effectively, you have to show team members you are willing to do the hard work and lock arms to pull in the same direction. That resonates with people. You also must have empathy and compassion. When you work with integrity and are willing to do the work, it benefits the clients you serve and the team members you work alongside.
What qualities about the Oakworth team make them great partners for your clients?
Oakworth associates embody the values of the organization, including the Golden Rule. When you treat others the way you want to be treated, it guides the decisions you make. It’s also the work ethic our associates bring every day, along with their character, attention to detail, integrity and professionalism. We are committed to providing thoughtful, customized client service. In my opinion, that is truly a differentiator.
What advice would you give to business owners, professionals or families looking for a local financial partner?
Partner is the right word. Look for someone who cares deeply about you and your success, and who is committed to helping you work toward your goals. Finding a partner that takes the time to understand you, your family, your business, your other advisors and your values should be the standard. That is hard to fake and finding a partner that genuinely cares can solve a lot of other issues.
In your new role, what’s one way you help people succeed?
First and foremost, I help clients plan for the people they love and protect what they have built. That includes much more than the financial aspects of their plan. It’s just as important to make sure clients feel confident that their loved ones have guidance and support if something happens. Helping clients feel more informed and prepared for the future is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job.
What’s one word you would use to describe Oakworth’s approach to client service?
Easy. We want to make the experience as easy as possible for our clients. We do that through associates who work with great care behind the scenes to provide attentive, high-quality client service, so that the experience is clear and seamless for the client.
Winston Busby, JD, LL.M. is Head of Wealth Preservation Services for Oakworth Capital Bank. He works with closely held business owners, individuals and families on sophisticated estate, tax and wealth transfer strategies. Previously, he was a shareholder and on the board of directors at Dentons Sirote PC. Winston is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual and may not reflect the views and opinions of Oakworth Capital Bank as a whole. Oakworth Capital Bank (OCB), Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, provides banking, wealth and advisory services. Advisory Services, including investment management and financial planning, are offered through Oakworth Asset Management LLC (OAM), a registered investment advisor. OAM is owned by OCB. Investment products and services offered via OAM are independent of the products and services offered by OCB, and are not FDIC insured, may lose value, have no bank guarantee, and are not insured by any federal or state government agency. Because of the ownership relationship and involvement by OAM associates with OCB, there exists a conflict of interest to the extent that either party recommends the services of the other. For additional information about OAM, including its services and fees, visit adviserinfo.sec.gov.