Ray: Embracing Change to Create Opportunity
Kelsey Ray, commercial relationship manager for First Interstate Bank, grew up knowing she wanted to be in the banking industry. She loves hearing about the different businesses people start and impacting their financial futures.
Ray has found opportunities for networking and connection with the IBA, especially participating in the 2026 Leaders in Advocacy class. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time at Lake of the Ozarks. She strives to avoid making the same mistake twice, living by the quote from Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
What drove you to choose a career in banking?
My dad was banker, so growing up I always said I wanted to be a banker. I remember in elementary school when we had to draw a picture of what we wanted to be when we grew up, and in the midst of everyone else drawing firemen, police officers and other cool things, I drew myself as a banker! My favorite class in college was also risk management, so I got my first job out of college as a credit analyst at a local bank.
Describe one life experience that taught you a lesson you apply to your banking career.
Banking, and the world in general, is constantly going through change. I have learned that resisting change wastes energy but embracing it creates opportunity. I have been through many reorganizations and a few bank mergers/acquisitions, and I always try to look for the opportunity in the change.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
It sits at the center of the economic activity for how the world moves money — everyone needs banking. You get to directly impact people’s financial futures, whether you are helping people grow their businesses or their personal endeavors. I also find it so fascinating some of the businesses people start, and I love hearing their stories!
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
It helps me connect and network with others in the industry. It is also informative for what is going on in the industry. I am learning a lot about this through the Leaders in Advocacy program.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
If I am not at work, you will most likely find me at the Lake of the Ozarks!
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou
I always tell myself you don’t have to know everything, but you have to be willing to learn to find out the answers, and every time you make a mistake, you have to learn from it. My goal is to never make the same mistake twice.