Howard Bancorp Inc. announced that it has hired veteran banker James D. Witty, former Maryland Regional President for BB&T, as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. In his new role, Witty will be responsible for all commercial business development and relationship management in Howard Bank's rapidly growing footprint. He will report directly to Mary Ann Scully, Howard Bank's Chief Executive Officer.

Witty has more than 27 years of banking experience. As the Maryland Regional President for BB&T, Witty was responsible for managing the commercial and retail operations for the Maryland region, including small business lending, commercial real estate, commercial and industrial lending and 98 retail locations. Witty played a key role in integrating Susquehanna Bank into the BB&T organization.

BB&T acquired Susquehanna Bank in a $2.5 billion transaction completed in August 2015.