Miller: Banking Career a ‘Unique Opportunity’
When Marie Miller was young, her parents taught her to make sound financial decisions. As vice president of consumer and real estate credit at TS Bank, she now does the same for her clients. “I have witnessed firsthand how bad credit decisions can affect a person’s life for years,” she said. “Counseling my clients to make financial decisions that are right for them is a very important part of my job.”
A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Miller says a banking career provides a “unique opportunity” to help others. “I love being a small part of helping my clients realize their dreams,” she said.
What is your favorite thing about working in the banking industry and why?
I have a unique opportunity to help people achieve their goals — whether it’s purchasing their first home, buying investment properties or growing their businesses. I love being a small part of helping my clients realize their dreams.
Describe one life experience that taught you a lesson that you apply to your banking career.
I was blessed to grow up with two parents who taught my siblings and me how to make sound financial decisions. As a lender, I have seen many credit bureaus and have witnessed firsthand how bad credit decisions can affect a person’s life for years. Counseling my clients to make financial decisions that are right for them is a very important part of my job.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a wonderful career choice because there are many different areas from which to choose. Banking is also an entry point to get involved in your community and meet people from many different lifestyles. It is a career choice that is ever changing and is a constant learning experience.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA is an enormous asset to community banks in Iowa. It offers many different educational opportunities and continuing education classes. The IBA is an advocate for community banks at the state and federal levels by being the bridge between legislators and the banking industry. The IBA also offers many services to assist community bank members — insurance, mortgage human resources, etc.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
When I am not working, my time is spent watching my two kids at their many sporting and extracurricular activities. I also enjoy traveling and strive to take a few vacations a year.
What is a quote or guiding principal you live by?
If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.