Keith Hickey joined Three Roots Capital in 2024 as Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer, bringing over 30 years of banking experience and a clear philosophy: lending is not about transactions but about building lasting relationships. His career spans rural towns and metropolitan cities and has been built on helping first-time entrepreneurs and seasoned operators access the right capital at the right time. “This role allows me to do what I love: help small businesses across Tennessee and neighboring states secure the capital and guidance they need to grow,” he said.
Keith’s decision to join Three Roots Capital was rooted in deep respect for the organization’s mission and leadership. Knowing the team’s integrity and vision made the choice natural. Grady Vanderhoofven, President and CEO of Three Roots Capital, shared, “I had known of Keith in our region for many years, and I always had a cordial relationship with him. I was immediately enthusiastic when I became aware that Keith was interested in joining our team. In my eyes, he is the prototype of the Chief Lending Officer in community development finance. Most importantly, he truly has a heart for helping people and small businesses. He is incredibly capable and accomplished, yet simultaneously humble and genuine. His experience and network of relationships position him to add tremendous value to our enterprise, and he hit the ground running, closing his first multi-million-dollar loan within 60 days of joining our team and 10 loans within his first six months. He is a friend and a colleague, and he was somewhat of a missing piece within our organization.”
Born and raised in Jefferson County, Tennessee, Keith has a particular passion for rural economic development and the unique challenges that small businesses in these areas face. He understands that traditional banking models often leave gaps. These are gaps he is determined to close. “Rural communities are generous to a fault. They’ll give the shirt off their back to help someone else, but they often won’t ask for help themselves. That’s why it’s so important for us to show up consistently and offer support.”
Keith’s lending philosophy is based on empathy and experience, with a defining moment early in his career that shaped his approach. Early on, he encountered a farmer in overalls who didn’t initially fit the typical borrower profile. Later, Keith learned that the farmer had over $2 million in bank deposits. This experience reinforced the importance of never judging based on appearances and always leading with professionalism and compassion.
Whether it’s a $50,000 microloan or a $20 million investment, Keith works to meet business owners where they are. He breaks down barriers, builds confidence, and connects them to the right resources. “We’re not just lenders at Three Roots,” he said. “We’re also partners. Many times, traditional banks have already turned down our borrowers. As a Community Development Financial Institution, we’re here to fill those gaps and walk alongside those borrowers.”
Keith’s leadership doesn’t stop at lending. He is an active and enthusiastic mentor, deeply invested in guiding the next generation of business leaders. He lends his expertise to organizations, including Knoxville Urban League, 100 Knox, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, and the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center – most recently leading the Inflection Point Capital Program. He also teaches at the University of Pennsylvania’s Stonier Graduate School of Banking and in The Wharton School’s leadership program each summer. “Mentorship is one of the most rewarding parts of my work,” he said. “Helping others understand how to navigate access to capital, scale their operations, and make smart, ethical decisions is something I truly believe in.”
Keith serves on the Appalachian Women’s Business Center and Security Bank and Trust boards. As an active member of the Tennessee Bankers Association, he contributes to the Governmental Relations, Annual Credit, and Senior Lenders Forum Committees. Additionally, he represents Three Roots in regional and statewide initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, rural development, and disaster recovery.
Outside the office, Keith brings that same energy and commitment to everything he does, whether golfing, salsa dancing, or leading fitness classes. His competitive mindset, work ethic, and genuine passion for people have made him a trusted advisor, a respected leader, and an enthusiastic community advocate. His advice to entrepreneurs remains consistent and heartfelt, whether they’re just starting out or scaling rapidly: “Stay focused, know your numbers, and always keep a long-term perspective. The hard work you put in today will pay off tomorrow.”