Brandon Watson has been appointed the Department of State Treasurer’s Chief Financial Officer, State Treasurer Brad Briner announced today.
“Brandon has proven himself to be an exceptional leader and consummate professional. His years of experience in the banking profession have prepared him well for this next step in his career. We are fortunate to have someone with his skills in financial planning and management, analysis and strategic decision making overseeing our department’s finances,” Treasurer Briner said.
Previously serving as DST’s banking director, Watson oversaw the state’s depository accounts, disbursing operations and banking services. Prior to that he began his financial career at Merrill Lynch. He transitioned to banking with the former Central Carolina Bank, which was acquired by SunTrust Bank, where he rose to management positions. He also worked for First Citizens Bank, where he focused primarily on small business development.
A resident of Durham, Watson graduated from Duke University with a degree in economics. He is also an alumnus of Leadership North Carolina.
The Financial Operations Division accounts for and reports on all funds deposited, invested and disbursed through DST, including the state pension and State Health Plan. All revenues collected by a state entity on behalf of the state must be deposited in DST.