Feser Tackles Demands of Compliance Head-On
As an internal auditor, compliance specialist and BSA (Bank Secrecy Act) officer at Peoples Bank, Amy Feser’s job can be demanding. But it can also be rewarding. One of her proudest accomplishments is implementing BSA software to help the bank monitor suspicious activity and fulfill recordkeeping requirements. “It has revamped our previous outdated process and helps us meet regulatory expectations,” she said.
Feser graduated from Simpson College with a degree in management and believes banking is a career that can match any personality type. “Banking can be very rewarding whether it be financing someone’s first home, providing a teen with their first debit card or receiving praise for a job well done during a regulatory exam,” she said.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
When I first started assisting in the BSA department, we had manual procedures for everything we did. After becoming the BSA officer, I have successfully implemented BSA software to help us assist in monitoring suspicious activity and recordkeeping requirements. I’m most proud of this achievement because it has revamped our previous outdated process and helps us meet regulatory expectations.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
Be open to exploring all areas of the bank and take every opportunity you have to learn something new.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking truly can be a career for every personality type. Banking provides opportunities for those of us who prefer to be people-facing as well as those who prefer to work “behind the scenes.” Either way, banking can be very rewarding whether it be financing someone’s first home, providing a teen with their first debit card or receiving praise for a job well done during a regulatory exam.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA has helped me grow into a more well-rounded compliance professional. Not only are the staff approachable and committed to helping Iowa banks succeed, they also give Iowa bankers the opportunity to join committees and let our voices be heard. If you ever get the chance to join an IBA committee, do it!
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love spending time with my husband and twin 2-year-old boys. We love spending time outdoors, camping and traveling to new places. In my downtime, I also enjoy a good movie and an even better book.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
In the compliance world, the IBA says it best: “If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen!!”
Personally: “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”
— Dalai Lama