With the Great Resignation a common descriptor of the current employment landscape, how exactly does Heartland Bank attract and retain associates that are committed, team-oriented and strategic with their career aspirations? Associates like Heather Landon, AO, branch manager of the Pickerington location, give Heartland an edge when it comes to culture, and this culture is a driving force behind associate retention and attraction.
Heartland executives convey the “family” vibe with their interactions, internal communications and engagement events. This encourages associate support and creates an environment of trust. Heather shares, “I think what I’m most proud of would be the success I’ve seen others achieve while growing with Heartland. Several members of our Pickerington team over the last 4 years have been promoted and grown to other roles within the bank to work toward their passion.” These associates believe in the culture and align their path to benefit their commitment to it.
Heather’s own career progression has had a few twists and turns, but ultimately with banking in her background, she found a connection with Heartland. With four years now under her belt, she is confident in her decision. “I would like to work on my next officer promotion, learn more about a few other areas of the bank for long-term career trajectory and continue to empower my team and peers in their roles to be confident and successful.”
She also realizes that her team is her asset – the key to a successful branch that meets the clients’ expectations and provides valuable relationships. “Show up each day and strive to be your best. Do the right thing for the bank and our clients. Be a great partner to both internal and external clients. Support the community, suggest ideas for growth, be loyal, honest and do everything with integrity.” Heather also encourages her staff to support local business owners and share how Heartland differentiates themselves from the competitors. She empowers her team to connect with the community and helps them focus on growing professionally in any way they think would be beneficial to them.
Heartland’s advertising campaign in 2022 is Relationships Matter. Heather shares the perfect sentiment regarding the bank, “We have everything that your current bank does, but we provide it better! Having a personal relationship with your banker may not seem too important to some – until you need them. Are they there? Are they as invested in your success as you are? We will be there to answer your call. During the pandemic, we saw a lot of businesses struggle for not only funding, but even a response from their bank. I’m extremely proud of the work we did as a team for the clients that we supported and the non-customers that we also took care of.”
“Heather has really integrated into her community and has established strong relationships. She is extremely driven and works diligently to create great client experiences and trust with her partners and clients. Heather was integral during PPP and worked long hours to help our clients and others in her community. She is knowledgeable and confident, and this extends to her team. We appreciate the level of quality and hustle Heather brings to our team on a daily basis!" shared Alyssa Booms, director of branch banking.
Growing up in Whitehall, the current location of Heartland’s home office, Heather feels additionally grounded by not only spending her childhood in the area, but also by raising her family in Central Ohio. “I grew up in Whitehall and graduated from Whitehall Yearling High School. I raised my 2 sons , Zak and Tyler, in Canal Winchester and currently reside in Groveport. Zak is currently working on his own brand of custom baseball caps, and Tyler is a Sophomore at the University of Cincinnati studying fashion design and merchandising.”
Heather is active in her community serving the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, BrockStrong Foundation, Bryon Saunders Foundation of Fairfield County, Picktown Palooza and Make-A-Day. “I enjoy home renovation projects, volunteering and raising funds for local non-profits. This year, I have been able to raise a total of $7,400 for multiple charities which provided 160 Thanksgiving meals for families in need, Christmas for 8 children, over 4400 diapers and dinner for 20 families with sick children at NCH.”
Do you have a banker like Heather? You’ll want this type of person in your corner when you need it! Come on over to Heartland where an experienced, committed banker will be right by your side!