McGinnis Finds ‘Rewarding’ Career in Banking
While Keith McGinnis was working on a degree in accounting and business administration at the University of Dubuque, he spent each summer working at a manufacturing plant. In addition to learning the importance of punctuality and hard work in that role, he also discovered an increased desire to work in air conditioning. He says that gave him additional motivation to finish college.
Today, McGinnis is portfolio manager team lead and assistant vice president at Heartland Financial USA, Inc., a bank holding company based out of Dubuque. In his role, he works specifically with Dubuque Bank & Trust. “Banking allows you to wear many different hats by exposing you to various businesses and industries in your local community,” McGinnis said. “It’s rewarding to develop relationships with customers, provide them with the products and services they require, and to share in their long-term success and growth.”
How did you get into banking as a career?
I graduated college with the intent of pursuing my CPA and a career in public accounting. My first position after graduation was as a staff accountant with a local manufacturer, which made me realize I didn’t want to be an accountant long term. I saw a posting for a credit analyst position, accepted, and have been in banking ever since.
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?
Throughout high school and college, I worked each summer at a manufacturing facility, which taught me valuable lessons, including punctuality and hard work. It also made me realize that I wanted to work in air conditioning versus a hot, muggy manufacturing plant, so I gained some additional motivation to finish college. Throughout the other nine months of the year, I worked at a pizza restaurant, which provided valuable lessons in working with the general public and customer service.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking allows you to wear many different hats by exposing you to various businesses and industries in your local community. It’s rewarding to develop relationships with customers, provide them with the products and services they require, and to share in their long-term success and growth.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Banking is an ever-evolving industry, and the IBA does a great job of keeping Iowa banks updated on law changes, legislation and economic shifts that directly impact our industry. In addition, the IBA’s various training opportunities allow Iowa bankers to further develop their skills, either in their current role or in a role they wish to pursue. For myself specifically, I most recently completed the two-year Iowa School of Banking program this summer which was a great experience.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love to spend time with my wife and our two young children. Bow hunting for whitetail deer every fall is a passion of mine that I share with my dad and brother, and have introduced to our children as well. I also enjoy fishing and golfing.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“If you’re not making yourself uncomfortable, you’re not growing.”