Pub. 1 2021 Issue 1

February 2021 | 17 “At times there’s a negative persona about being with the bank, but I think there are many opportunities that banks — more specifically, community banks — offer. Banks build dreams for families and busi - nesses in their communities, and I get to be a small part of that.” was smoother because I am working with people I already had rela- tionships with. There are many great people in eastern Missouri that I have been calling on for many years. They are customers and colleagues. It’s the people that make this job rewarding.” When asked about the most rewarding part of his career, Andrew said, “At times there’s a negative persona about being with the bank, but I think there are many opportunities that banks —more specifically, community banks — offer. Banks build dreams for families and businesses in their communities, and I get to be a small part of that.” Andrew has learned at least three things that he passes on to any- one he mentors: 1. Banking is a business of relationships first and foremost. You can crunch it into numbers, but that is misleading. Banking doesn’t work without friendship. 2. While the industry itself is stable, the world of banking does change. You must adapt and learn to be flexible. If you don’t like change, then banking is not the right industry for you. 3. It’s a relatively small world, so be kind and respectful, and don’t burn bridges. After 14 years in the banking industry, Andrew is still working with many of the same people. Andrew also sees benefits fromMIBAmembership. For one thing, the association is a network of peers. MIBA has been especially helpful during the current pandemic. It is instrumental in providing education and knowledgeable assistance, which in turn suggests a way forward. Although it’s common for some banks to compete, the competition is friendly. He said, “Banking has challenges, just like any industry, and the best way to combat challenges is to be together as a united front.” The pandemic is a perfect illustration of how a united front can help banks. Andrew said, “Banks overall were more prepared coming into the pandemic recession than we ever were before previous recessions even though we didn’t see it coming. We had strong assets, our capital levels were good, and our loan losses were acceptable. Although we may take a hit in 2021, it will be nothing like 2008-2012.” He added, “I know many people are in hard-hit industries. They are stressed and in a tight situation, and my heart goes out to them. I hope there will be some kind of program to help people get to the finish line together. But we’ve been down this road before. We’ve had practice. I am optimistic about the banking industry and our clients.” When asked about what he does in his spare time, Andrew says he spends a lot of time with his family and enjoys sports. “I played a lot of sports growing up. I’m a Cardinals and Blues fan, and I’m also a big fan of the University of Missouri athletics. My wife Janna and I have a 6-year-old boy, and we are working on getting him into sports. Fatherhood is important to me.” Andrew also enjoys reading. He said, “I am rereading Alexander Hamilton’s biography. War history has been a big interest for me, especially the era of the American revolution. Alexander Hamilton was the first secretary of the treasury, and he set up our banking system. That was a massive undertaking and something that, given my choice of careers, has taken on new meaning.” Working in banking, which Andrew feels is the epitome of balance and perscepctive has been a great fit for him. ■