Farm Life Instills Strong Work Ethic in Wheelan
Much of Cheri Wheelan’s career has been spent in an accounting role. She developed a strong work ethic, however, by growing up on a dairy farm. She says she and her six sisters each had responsibilities on the farm, and the experience taught her valuable lessons. “I learned at a young age to work hard, respect others and always appreciate what you have,” she said. “That work ethic has been a good foundation for me through the years and has helped me achieve many goals throughout my career.”
Today, Wheelan, who received a degree in accounting from Clarke College in Dubuque, is chief audit officer at Fidelity Bank & Trust in Waverly. “I really feel that banks can make a positive impact in the community by helping their customers achieve their financial goals,” she said.
How did you get into banking as a career?
Right after college, I worked at a public accounting firm, performing various tasks including external audits and tax preparation and eventually working with the consulting services group doing internal audits. I really enjoyed working with the financial institution clients and loved the professional environment of the banks I visited. After a quick two years, I knew public accounting was not for me long term as I was growing tired of the extensive travel from client to client. Banking seemed like a good path since I could still apply my accounting and audit skills. I eventually had the opportunity to join the internal audit department of a local bank holding company and have been in banking ever since. All of my banking career has been spent working in an audit role, with the exception of three years where I worked in operations, primarily overseeing deposit operations.
Prior to your current role, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had, and what lesson did it teach you that you still use today?
I grew up on a small dairy farm. My parents had seven daughters — no sons — and I learned early on that we all had responsibility on the farm. Farm life is not always easy but the life lessons are invaluable. I learned at a young age to work hard, respect others and always appreciate what you have. That work ethic has been a good foundation for me through the years and has helped me achieve many goals throughout my career.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a challenging and rewarding career. With regulations and technology constantly changing, banks need to stay one step ahead in order to safely and consistently meet the needs of their customers. I really feel that banks can make a positive impact in the community by helping their customers achieve their financial goals.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA provides many great training opportunities and is a great resource for our bank. Through their events, I have been able to connect with some very knowledgeable peers within the banking industry.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love spending time with my husband and our three boys. Our boys are all active in multiple sports so most of our free time is spent attending their activities. I also enjoy traveling to see our extended family, hiking, baking and just relaxing at home.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
In a world where you can be anything, be kind.