Heartland Bank is proud to share a very successful aspect of its internal culture – women in various positions all through the ranks of Heartland, from entry level positions to the Chief Financial Officer. Jamie Taylor recognizes this attribute and is thankful to be a part of this diverse environment.
With appreciation for this environment, Jamie offered this advice, “Say yes to every opportunity that is presented to you. I’ve learned so much just by being curious and asking to take on projects that help me grow as an associate. In 2018, an opportunity opened in our Retail Administration department, and I was fortunate enough to be selected to fill that role. I almost didn’t raise my hand because I didn’t think I would be selected. Just imagine how that decision would have impacted my entire career development path. Also, take the Principals of Banking course no matter how much industry experience you may have!”
As a Retail Operations Supervisor, Jamie witnesses what happens within the retail environment from entry level operations at the bank to higher-level strategic functions. She began her career at Heartland as a Customer Service Representative but has ultimately progressed along a very successful career path. She shared, “I would say that I am most proud of my career path, and the relationships I have been able to establish along the way. I love being able to help people be successful in their role, and luckily, I get to do that with the largest segment of the bank! There are so many amazing individuals I get to work with.”
According to Amanda Beavers, Vice President and Head of Retail Operations, “I have managed a lot of people, and learned that you can teach, coach and guide your associates, but the one thing you cannot do is show them drive. Jamie’s work ethic is built on her discipline to hit her goals and achieve her goals.”
Jamie is adamant about grounding herself, realizing that her journey might have some unexpected turns. “I try not to think too far into the future about what my career goals are at Heartland. I just want to be in a role where my skills are being utilized, and I am doing something meaningful to support bank growth. My current and previous job at Heartland were created through the initiatives I took in my own career development, which happens a lot here at Heartland! Fortunately, the leaders here at the bank are good at identifying potential in someone and will proactively work on career development with them,” added Jamie.
Heartland supports a culture driven by initiative and applauds those that seek to find their niche. Associates are empowered to create opportunity while following the shared values of the bank. “Those who naturally align with our values stand out. It’s all about providing superior customer service and being a team player, while maintaining a high level of integrity,” said Jamie. With safety and security hot topics today, Heartland associates understand the need for company commitment and client loyalty.
Jamie is also committed to her family and community. Born in Ohio, Jamie’s family moved to Florida when she was a baby and moved back to Ohio when she was ten (she is puzzled to this day as to why her parents wanted to leave the beach). She now lives in Central Ohio with her three-year-old daughter, Amelia, and two kittens named Sam and Dean. “When I’m not at work, I’m likely spending time playing with Amelia or listening to her tell me about the many things that go on in a 3-year-old’s brain.” She also loves reading, hiking, attending concerts and most of all, cooking. “I love trying dishes from different cultures and then learning how to master that dish myself. Of course, my family loves to be my taste-testers.”
“I am also involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters and for the past 15 months have mentored a very caring and intelligent 11-year-old girl,” shared Jamie. This is what Heartland Bankers do…commit to community and volunteer where needed. If you’d like to be part of an organization that values its associates and promotes community involvement, check out the careers at Heartland and start your journey today!