Beyond a Banker - Megan Lahay
I sort of college hopped in my 20’s! I went to the University of Arkansas right out of high school as a dental hygiene major, but quickly realized I had a knack for banking and switched to NWACC, John Brown University, and finally Columbia College before finishing my degree in Finance and General Studies with a minor in Marketing.
I began my banking career in 2008 as a part-time teller while attending college.
I am Senior Vice President Treasury Management Officer of Northwest Arkansas.
I started working in banking part-time and loved every part of it! The customer service and focus on helping people is what really drew me in. I’m wildly competitive so banking helps me harness that drive by goal meeting, tracking, and incentive.
I think a lot of people think Treasury management can be a lot of behind the scenes stuff, but really we love being out and meeting people! Networking and business development are a huge part of what make Treasury successful as a sales officer.
It means I’m more than just someone who can help you with your financial goals. I’m there to support your business, attend your open house, charity event, listen to your stories. My customers trust in me because of my professionalism, but also because I truly care about their success and I hope to be a part of that!
tell us about yourself:
I’m a part of many local organizations in Northwest Arkansas that are very near and dear to my heart. I’m a Community Ambassador with Single Parent Scholarship Fund of NWA, I’m on the Leadership Committee for Washington County Teen Leadership, I am on the Dream Big Gala Décor Committee which benefits the Children’s Safety Center of Washington County, and I’m on the Leadership Committee for Leadership Fayetteville through the Chamber of Commerce. If it involves helping an organization in my neighborhood, I have a hard time saying no! I love helping those who need a voice to speak and I’m a huge Leadership nerd! 😊
If it’s football or basketball season, you’ll find me calling the Hogs! During the spring or fall you’ll probably see me with my dad and family fishing for white bass or trout! And during the summer, you’re likely to find me on the pontoon at Beaver Lake!
Senior Vice President of Trust Me with your cash and pay me to do so 😊
Severance, Shrinking, Ted Lasso.
Anytime I’m with my husband Brandon and my kiddos Skyler and Finn! Also anytime I can be near water. I love the river, the lake, and the ocean! A true Pisces 😊
My favorite local restaurant is Hugo’s in Fayetteville. I’m getting a BLT with Avocado and of course the basket of fries!
I tend to write down my daily goals for the day and waking up to tackle those goals makes me happy. Iced coffee also 😊
I love karaoke and if you take me to a place that has it, I will definitely be signing up to sing a song, or 2 or 3.
My very first job was working at Taco Bell when I was 16. And yes I still love Taco Bell!
Money Bag Megs
It’s ok to not please everyone. Don’t take things personally, most people are self-focused and have their own things going on. Don’t make assumptions.
for women's history month:
I would love to talk to Princess Diana. I love that she was who she was, even if that didn’t make everyone happy all the time. Plus she had such a big, giving heart.
What woman in your own life has been an inspiration to you?
My mom has been my biggest supporter and cheerleader my whole life. She was a single mom most of my childhood and watching her work tirelessly to provide for me was truly humbling and makes me want to be a better woman and mother today.
What piece of advice would you give to other women in banking?
Don’t be afraid to speak your opinions, let your voice be heard. Stand up for yourself and know your worth. Always be impeccable with your word and don’t be afraid to take chances and jump in with both feet!