Morris Prioritizes Relationships In Banking
For 22 years, Matthew Morris, CEO of Charter Bank, has remained dedicated to his banking career and Charter Bank. Over this time, Morris has been able to develop relationships with the Charter Bank team, clients and others in the banking industry. “Seeing the growth that has occurred with our team in their careers and families as well as the growth in businesses that we helped finance at their inception is very rewarding,” he said.
Building these relationships is the core of banking according to Morris. In this career, he advises others to lean on their strengths and to be motivated to help others. “If you are looking at a career that you can be proud of and feel a true sense of accomplishment at the end, then community banking might just be for you,” he said.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
The relationships that I have developed over the years, whether it be with our Charter Bank team, clients or those in the banking industry. When you have been with one organization for 22 years, those relationships mean something truly special. Seeing the growth that has occurred with our team in their careers and families as well as the growth in businesses that we helped finance at their inception is very rewarding.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
I have been fortunate to be in an organization that has had several different areas of expertise and throughout my career I have relied on several different people to shape who I am today. I was told early on, help the bank in any way you can. If things are slow, look for process improvement for when things get busy. Lean on your strengths, too many focus on improving your weaknesses. I was guilty of that early in my career, but everyone has strengths, focus on being the best at something in your bank and you will always provide value to others within the organization.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking, more specifically community banking, is about building relationships. Those relationships will allow you to help others be more successful, whether it is starting a business, buying their first home or opening their first checking account. Banking can provide you with a feeling of satisfaction when your motivation is to help others achieve their goals. Community bankers understand that they are here to help their communities, businesses and individuals be as successful as possible. I’ll be honest, if you are searching for the highest paying career, community banking would not make the top 10. But, if you are looking at a career that you can be proud of and feel a true sense of accomplishment at the end, then community banking might just be for you.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
Iowa Bankers Association has provided me with resources that have allowed me to grow as a banker. The Iowa Bankers Association has been there to support me as I sought additional training opportunities. The IBA has supported Charter Bank in many ways over the years with their lobbying efforts for the banking industry in more ways than I can recall. I think Charter Bank has benefited from every department within the IBA. As a smaller community bank, the resources that the IBA has provided have allowed us to have services at a price point that we otherwise would not have access to.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
My day feels off if I don’t start at the gym, that is where I go to relieve stress. It is very quiet on my way to the gym early in the morning, so I enjoy that peace before my day begins. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends watching movies, playing cards and spending time outdoors biking and playing yard games.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
2 Chronicles 15:7 – But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.