Boles comes to Regions after 20 years of service with the Federal Bureau of Investigation where he most recently served as assistant director of the Bureau’s International Operations Division based in Washington, D.C.

An information technology expert with a background in complex security environments, Boles’ experience includes overseeing FBI cyber operations and investigations. As part of his role with the FBI, he implemented strategies that focused investigative resources on high-priority global cyber risks while also working with the private sector to mitigate the effects of malware, crimeware and criminal botnet attacks.

Boles brings a vast network of international law enforcement, legal and financial services contacts to his new role at Regions. As manager of International and Cyber Investigation for the company, Boles will identify and monitor emerging trends or threats and help coordinate responses designed to protect Regions customers.

Boles will report to Bill Burch, head of Corporate Security for Regions.

“People and businesses who bank with Regions may never see John at their local branch, but they will benefit from his service and the depth of his experience,” Burch said. “In today’s environment, banks are consistently working to defend customers against various attempts at fraud, often initiated by criminals operating overseas. John’s background in investigations, and his relationships in the international community, make him ideally suited for his new role, and we are proud to welcome him to the Regions team.”

Boles’ experience also includes serving as Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Division. He joined the Bureau in 1995 and investigated a range of violations including fugitive cases, white-collar crimes, violent crimes, Ponzi schemes, narcotics cases and more. He held positions of increasing responsibility throughout his tenure, including international assignments in Ukraine and Belarus.

“What attracted me to Regions is the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of protecting customers,” Boles said. “The way criminals operate continues to evolve, whether it’s how they initiate fraudulent wire transfers, how they carry out online schemes, or any number of other tactics. Regions has a team of Corporate Security and Information Security professionals whose primary focus is consumer protection in a changing world. I look forward to utilizing my experience to support the mission of this team and this company.”

Prior to his FBI experience, Boles served for five years as a Cryptologic Technician for the United States Navy where he operated radio intercepts aboard surface and subsurface combatants.

Boles is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in political science.