Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill

Jon Duke grew up watching his father, a general contractor specializing in building fast food restaurants, work hard to provide for his family. As he grew older, Jon often joined his dad on construction projects, learning not only the technical aspects of the job, but also how qualities like honesty and integrity in work create a trusting, lasting relationship with clientele.

Jon's experience in his dad's contracting business put him on a path to studying engineering at The University of Alabama. While he enjoyed the many projects he had completed with his father, a few weeks of engineering classes proved that it wasn't a path Jon wanted to pursue. He changed his major to business, noting that many possible career options were available under that umbrella. 

Following Jon's graduation from Alabama, one of his fraternity brothers told him about a job opening in the investments department at SouthTrust Bank. Jon took a chance on the job, was hired, and remained there for 20 years before moving to Synovus, where he has been for the last 17 years.

Jon currently serves as Vice President and Financial Advisor for Synovus Securities, a role in which he advises individuals and families in matters concerning their financial needs, like retirement, education, insurance, or general investments.

"My work is incredibly rewarding. I can lay my head on the pillow and rest easily at night knowing that my clients are where they should be regarding their finances," Jon says. "I take a lot of pride in helping people put together financial plans and helping them reach their financial objectives and goals."

It's clear to see that Jon is a knowledgeable and dependable coach to those who seek his services. Approximately 90% of his client base followed him to Synovus when he left his previous position. He credits that to the qualities his dad instilled in him during their time working together.

"My clients have made it evident that they appreciate me and have confidence in the advice I give them. I owe that to my work ethic, and that work ethic I owe to my dad," says Jon. "When you're honest and upfront with people, put them first, and always do the best you can to take care of them and their needs, you position yourself for success."

In March 2021, Jon, a native of Birmingham, began working three days a week in the Synovus Securities office in Jasper. In just under a year, he has already fostered relationships with the people of the community who benefit from his services and financial advice.

"Jasper is a nice, friendly place, and I really love the small-town environment. It's different from the environments I have worked in before, but the need of the client is still the same—how can I advise their investments for the best outcome?" Jon says. "But most importantly, how can I invest my time and energy into these people? I want them to know I am someone who wants them to thrive financially, and in turn, contribute to the local economy and help Jasper continue to be the best it can be." 78