Retired bank exec now leads Harbert College's Birmingham operations

AUBURN, Alabama — Today, Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business announced Greg Gagliano as the new director of its Birmingham operations. Gagliano recently retired from Regions Bank, where he was executive vice president and head of enterprise operations.

In this new role, Gagliano will direct and oversee all Harbert College operations in the Auburn in Birmingham facility, while expanding the college’s engagement with Birmingham’s business community and supporting the continued growth of graduate and executive programs. The position, which had been vacant during an extensive search process, plays a key role in strengthening Auburn’s presence and partnerships in Alabama’s largest metropolitan area.

---

“I’m thrilled to be joining Auburn University in this capacity and continuing my relationship with the Harbert College of Business. The Auburn in Birmingham facility represents an incredible opportunity to connect with professionals across the region, build community partnerships and enhance the learning experience for our students and faculty. I’m honored to help advance that mission.”

Greg Gagliano, Harbert College of Business director of operations in Birmingham

---

Extensive leadership and operational experience

Gagliano brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across the public and private sectors. At Regions Bank, he oversaw enterprise operations across 15 states, leading a workforce of nearly 2,000 employees.

His portfolio included strategy development, operational efficiency, customer experience, facilities management, vendor relations and enterprise logistics. He also managed the bank’s 400,000-square-foot Riverchase Operations Center, one of the region’s premier corporate campuses.

A 1993 graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Operations Management), Gagliano has maintained strong ties to the university. He has served on the Harbert College Alumni Council and the Harbert College Advisory Council, providing strategic insight on student experience, business engagement and operational leadership.

“Greg’s extensive experience in operations, strong Birmingham business relationships, and deep connection to Auburn make him an outstanding choice to lead our Birmingham initiatives,” said Jennifer Mueller-Phillips, dean of Harbert College. “He understands both the strategic importance of the Birmingham market and the Auburn spirit that drives our mission. We’re excited for his leadership as we continue expanding our programs and partnerships in the region.”

Expanding Auburn’s impact in Birmingham

As director of Birmingham operations, Gagliano will:

• Lead all operational activities at Auburn in Birmingham, ensuring exceptional experiences for students, faculty and visitors.
• Serve as the senior liaison with university partners such as the College of Architecture, Design and Construction and the Office of the Provost.
• Oversee day-to-day management of the Birmingham facility, including space utilization, logistics and guest engagement.
• Build relationships with Birmingham’s business and civic leaders to enhance visibility and collaboration.
• Drive strategic growth for Harbert’s graduate and executive programs in the Birmingham market.

 

---

“Birmingham has always been a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership. Auburn’s continued investment here demonstrates a commitment to supporting the city’s business community and preparing the next generation of professionals who will drive Alabama forward.”

Greg Gagliano

---

Gagliano’s appointment reinforces Harbert College’s mission to deliver transformative business education that connects academic excellence with real-world impact.

###

About the Harbert College of Business

The Raymond J. Harbert College of Business at Auburn University is a nationally ranked business school offering undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and executive degree programs. Founded in 1967, Harbert College develops business leaders who embody Auburn values, creates knowledge that drives innovation, and shapes the future of business and society.