A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE: By Sally Cline As bankers, we know and understand that a career in banking continues to be one of the most challenging, competitive and rewarding careers in the corporate world. Moreover, our industry covers a diverse collection of job positions that include nearly every skill set, experience level, and career goal. What is so exciting about our industry is that banking is constantly changing and evolving. Today’s banking environment is not what it was 20 years ago, and it will not be the environment of the future. From a talent management perspective, the workforce is transforming too. Baby boomers are beginning to retire in increasing numbers, and Generation Xers are moving into senior management positions. The next group, Generation Y or millennials, are now far enough in their careers to have gained some meaningful experience, with a number having been identified as up-and-coming leaders. In order to preserve West Virginia’s existing network of banks, it is imperative that we cultivate the next generation of bank leaders. As announced late last year, the Future Leaders Council presented to Association leadership an idea to recognize high-potential bankers under the age of 40 through a Young Banker of the Year Award. WVBankers received nine nominations from six-member banks. Each of the nominees is impressive and has clearly demonstrated a deep commitment to his/her organization, the industry and the local community. I am pleased to announce that the WVBankers Board of Directors, through a blind selection process, selected Elisha “E.J.” Hassan, AVP and Senior Portfolio Manager at United Bank, as our inaugural Young Banker of the Year. He, along with his fellow nominees, exemplifies what it means to be a banker. Congratulations to all the nominees for this special recognition. With your enthusiasm and determination, the future of banking looks bright. I would also like to congratulate United Bank, as well as the other banks that participated in our Young Banker of the Year initiative, for creating an environment that allows and encourages employees to grow and develop. Talent and Leadership Development programs are integral to that process. If your bank does not offer its own internal training program, please look to the offerings at WVBankers. Continued on page 6 2022 Young Banker of the Year Award Pub. 13 2022 I Issue 2 Summer 5 West Virginia Banker
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