12 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2018 “Mortgage lending is another strength. Even though interest rates have gone up, and mortgage lending is projected to start slowing, it hasn’t slowed down for us. We are extremely busy. “We also keep up with technology, because it plays a significant role. And we have a board of directors that supports us in all that we do, which helps us be successful.” What was a pivotal moment in your career development? “When I was five years into my career, still working at First National Bank in Richmond, an insurance agent asked if I’d like to become licensed and sell on a part-time basis. I was young and energetic, and I thought the extra income sounded great. Continued on page 14. George Ferriell (left) works closely with Branden Logue, his successor as president and CEO of Bath State Bank. “I talked to the executive vice president at the bank about the opportunity. He told me that if I really wanted to excel in my banking career – not necessarily make the most money, but get to a higher level – I should devote all my time to my job. “I took his advice and turned down the insurance offer. Then my career advanced faster than I expected, with a couple of promotions at First National before coming to Bath State Bank. “Once I came to Bath State Bank, I devoted a tremendous amount of time to it, and sometimes it seemed like I was here day and night. But one year to the day after I came here, I was elected to the board of directors. Then, 11 years ago, I was named president. “So the advice of that EVP paid off. It was a big decision to turn down the insurance opportunity, but it was the right career choice.” What do you enjoy most about your career? “I enjoy making a difference by learning about people and helping them achieve their goals. Making a difference is what it’s all about, and it applies to staff, customers, shareholders and community. “I know all of our staff members, including their families and what’s going on in their lives. It’s important to me to be able to walk into anybody’s office and ask them about their child or their spouse, or whatever career their spouse is in. “I also love getting out in the community. At 4-H auctions, I’m out and about the whole evening, talking to dozens of people. I enjoy doing that. “Back when I was at First National Bank, our president impressed on me the idea that bankers represent their bank every time they’re out. I’ll never forget him saying that you represent your bank at all times, even when you’re at home in your pajamas. “I didn’t fully embrace that idea at the start, but I grew into it, and now I’m very cognizant of representing the bank. No matter if it’s in the evening, the morning, a Sunday or a holiday, I am proud and honored to be doing what I love and also representing the bank. That means the world to me.” What are the biggest challenges to banking? “There are many, starting with the various regulations, but here’s a fact: Compliance challenges and regulations and farm credit are here, and they’re going to continue to be here in the future. We have to face those challenges head on and turn them into opportunities. “Another challenge is keeping a good succession plan in place, which means not only finding qualified personnel, but finding people who fit your culture. It also means having a strong succession plan for your shareholders and directors. “Expanding your niche is another challenge. Many banks lack in expanding their expertise, and then must merge to become stronger. “For Bath State Bank, our niche is agriculture, which is ever-changing. We are constantly coming up with new programs to fit our farming clients’ needs.” How can bankers become more engaged in grassroots advocacy? “Pay attention to IBA emails and updates to gain understanding of bills and to appreciate the need to contact legislators. Thanks to the IBA, I have learned how important George Ferriell greets Kelsea Brown, head teller/customer service representative, in the lobby of Bath State Bank. Ferriell takes pride in knowing the names of all his employees, plus their spouses and children.
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