University of Central Arkansas, Bachelor of Business Administration, Emphasis in Management
How long have you been in banking?
13 years
What is your official job title?
VP, Retail Operations Manager
What SHOULD your job title be (if it was hilariously accurate to what you do every day)?
Chaos Coordinator (5 kids) (70 Retail Associates)
Summarize what you do in your role.
I work in Retail Administration where I try to streamline processes and operations for our Retail Associates. I strive to make things more efficient and operationally sound for our Retail Teams. I work with a team in Retail Admin to ensure Retail Associates have the tools needed to succeed in their roles.
How/Why did you get into the banking industry?
I never saw myself as a banker. I got into banking by chance. I started my career as a Sales Rep for Cintas Corporation. I applied for a CSR position at the Headquarters location looking for a change. I ended up getting the CSR position at the Pleasant Plains location. I fell in love with banking and retail management. I wanted to learn everything I could about the banking industry, and I have never looked back.
What is a DRIVER within your role?
People. I care deeply about my people. I truly want to help people succeed. It brings me so much joy to watch Retail Associates flourish and excel in their roles. Seeing Retail Associates move into that next role or excel in their current role truly drives me to succeed in my role.
What skill(s) do you use on the job that might surprise people?
One of my mentors described me as a quiet strength and that has always resonated with me. I am not usually the first to talk in a meeting or the most vocal in the room. I speak when I feel passionate about something. I have found that I learn more by listening and people pay more attention when I do speak.
What do people assume about your role that isn't true?
I think sometimes people hear the word operations and assume that I deal more with numbers and less with people. I am still very involved with the Retail Teams. This role allows me to focus on the strategy for retail. It allows me to take the needs of the retail associates and work to make products, platforms, vendors, etc. more efficient and streamline for our people and customers.
What would you say to someone who doesn't think a banking career is for them?
I believe there is a fit for so many people in the banking industry. It has opportunities for people with all backgrounds and personalities. There are so many different options available to explore.
What does Beyond A Banker mean to you?
It means going the extra mile and being genuine in everything you do. People relate to people that care. Customers relate to people who are involved and care about the communities they serve.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
I am passionate about anything my children love. Seeing them happy brings me joy. I am also passionate about the Lord and my Church Family. I love to do things with my church that bring Glory to the Lord.
When/Where are you happiest?
I am the happiest when I am with my husband and children. We love being outside. We enjoy riding side by sides, playing basketball, swimming, and being at the ball fields.
What show(s) are you currently binge-watching?
I don't get to spend a lot of time watching TV and when I do it is usually cartoons but the latest show, I watched for myself was Tracker. I do also love a good crime show.
Where is your favorite (local) place to eat? What is your go-to order?
Dora's in Batesville. My go-to order is Chicken Hibachi.
What special/interesting skill do you have that others might not know about?
I was a basketball player and pageant girl growing up. I gave up the pageants for sports and still love a good game of basketball today.
What is something that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
Patience. It seems easy but is definitely harder in practice. We live in a world of instant gratification. I have learned over the years to learn as much as I can about everything I can. This allows me to be ready for whatever opportunity comes my way.
