Wells Fargo Middle Market Banking promoted 28-year banking veteran John Favret to lead its New Orleans team as regional vice president. Favret will succeed Doug Kilton, who launched the office in 2011 and recently moved to a commercial banking leadership role in Houston.

Favret will oversee a team of diverse commercial lending professionals who specialize in a localized lending approach to privately held, middle-market companies with revenues of $20 million and higher. The office serves clients in a wide range of industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, wholesale, retail, distribution and technology.

“John will continue Doug’s great work and lead this dynamic team to even greater heights in years to come with integrity, diligence and commitment to helping companies grow,” said Sam Belk, Mid-South division manager for Wells Fargo Middle Market Banking.

Previously, Favret served as the real estate advisory division territory manager for the Southeast U.S., responsible for the Carolinas, Florida, Georgia, Mid-Atlantic and Mid-South divisions. Favret began his career in 1989 at Southeast Bank, before it went through several transitions and was ultimately acquired by Wells Fargo. Favret held several leadership positions within the bank, including in commercial banking, large corporate banking, underwriting and asset-based lending.