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IBA Member Spotlight: Jenna Hammond

Hammond Finds Opportunity in Banking

RVB 0156Jenna Hammond, assistant vice president and human resources director at Raccoon Valley Bank says a career in banking provides endless opportunities. She is proud of her efforts toward transitioning their payroll system to a more automated one, which has provided more accurate record keeping. 

Hammond credits the IBA with providing people to push her in her career and run ideas past. When she’s not working, Hammond enjoys running, reading, traveling, experiencing different cultures, and spending time with family. Hammond seeks to always try new things, saying that “Growth materializes when you step outside your comfort zone.”

When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?

From inaugurating annual employee awards to championing the IBIS wellness initiative, there are so many reasons to feel fulfilled and proud of my banking career. I am truly blessed to have the guidance from incredible mentors and the collaboration of a phenomenal team that supports all of my endeavors here at Raccoon Valley Bank.  But if I had to pick one thing to be most proud of, it would be my work on transitioning our payroll and timekeeping system to a more automated one. This conversion has created greater transparency and visibility for all of our employees.  It has also given managers better oversight of their employees time and attendance, making our records more accurate.   

What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?

Since my path to banking was a bit unconventional, I feel that my advice to my past self is something that most bankers already know.  It would have been beneficial for me to have taken a few accounting courses during my formal education.  I still have some catching up to do with my understanding of the numbers that drive decisions in banking.  As for more general advice to someone considering a career in banking, I would stress the importance of exploring every opportunity that comes their way. This will lead to a more comprehensive understanding of how everything fits together, developing more confidence and knowledge throughout their career. 

What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?

There are numerous opportunities in banking. Of course there are the traditional paths through deposits and loans. But other fields such as IT, Marketing, and Human Resources are also professional opportunities within banks that allow you to learn and explore the financial sector. A career in banking, especially a career at a community bank, facilitates an individual to acquire knowledge in many different areas of expertise, thus giving you the freedom to shape your career into endless possibilities.  It is hard work, but if you are dedicated and willing to put in the effort, it is boundlessly rewarding. 

How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?

I have met so many inspiring people through my involvement with Iowa Bankers Association, who push me to do better every day.  It is truly helpful to be able to reach out to those contacts through IBA to bounce ideas off of to ensure that I am on the right path. 

When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?

I enjoy running, reading, traveling, diving into different cultural experiences, and spending time with my family.

What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?

Do not be afraid to try something new.  Growth materializes when you step outside of your comfort zone.