Payne Finds Success by Saying Yes
Melissa Payne, first vice president and client experience officer at MidWestOne Bank in Iowa City, started as a teller at the bank over 20 years ago. Throughout her time at MidWestOne Bank, Payne grew into her current role by focusing on continual learning and the willingness to say yes to new opportunities. Her advice to new bankers is, “Always be open to feedback and new opportunities.”
Payne appreciates how banking allows her to positively impact her community. She noted that most people don’t realize how many individuals work behind the scenes to allow the bank to prosper. Throughout her various roles at the bank, she’s built an appreciation for the many career possibilities banking offers and for the resources from the IBA. “Between schools, conferences, and seminars, the IBA offers many ways for bankers to further their professional development and build a network of peers to learn from,” she said.
When looking back on your banking career, what achievement are you most proud of and why?
I started my career at MidWestOne Bank as a teller while I finished school at the University of Iowa. Over the past 20 years, I’ve taken on many different projects and grown into my current role. I am proud of my focus on continual learning and my willingness to say yes to new opportunities.
What piece of advice would you give to your past self or to anyone considering a career in banking?
Always be open to feedback and new opportunities.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
Banking is a great opportunity to positively impact your community – whether you work in a customer-facing role or you’re behind the scenes. There are a wide variety of roles in banking that most people don’t realize exist. There are many opportunities to explore different areas in the bank to develop expertise in what truly interests you.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The IBA offers an abundance of great resources for training and connecting with peers. Between schools, conferences, and seminars, the IBA offers many ways for bankers to further their professional development and build a network of peers to learn from.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I enjoy traveling, going to concerts, reading, weightlifting, running, watching University of Iowa athletics, and spending time with my husband and dogs.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Feedback is a gift.