Cross Comes Home, Finds Career in Banking
After working in sales for five years in a larger city, Karisa Cross moved back to her hometown. Her job search landed her at a local bank, supervising tellers and customer service representatives. It’s an industry she has stayed in for 12 years.
Today, Cross is a branch manager and retail loan officer at Green Belt Bank & Trust in Eldora. “Being in the banking business is challenging at times but the reward of helping people is what matters most,” she said.
How did you get into banking as a career?
Honestly, I moved back to my hometown after living in a bigger city and working in sales for five years. A banking position was open at another bank in town and I applied for it. I started as a supervisor over tellers and customer service representatives and stayed at that bank for two years. I have been at my current role for 10.
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 worked at Heartland Windows in Aplington assembling windows of every kind on a factory line. Hard work and dedication pays off when you dedicate your time and focus on what you do.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Being in the banking business is challenging at times but the reward of helping people is what matters most.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Iowa Bankers offers so many courses, classes, etc. that really help us as lenders obtain more knowledge and achieve our goals as a financial institution.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love spending time with my family and being outdoors if possible. We love taking vacations to different places just to explore.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Every day may not be good but there is something good in every day.