Lending Allows Leu to Help Others With Financial Goals
Teri Leu was first introduced to the credit needs of consumers when she worked in a furniture store. Helping people with financing on furniture opened her eyes to new opportunities, and she joined the financial services industry in 1989. For the last 32 years, she has worked in mortgage lending.
Today, Leu is a mortgage lender at First Central State Bank in Eldridge. “I love working with and helping people achieve their financial goals,” she said.
How did you get into banking as a career?
I have always been a numbers person. One of my first jobs was working in the office of a furniture store. I enjoyed helping people with their credit needs. I decided to take it a step further and joined the financial services industry in 1989.
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?
I have been in mortgage lending for the past 32 years in one capacity or another. I have enjoyed them all, but particularly my role as a lender. I love working with and helping people achieve their financial goals. I would say the most interesting job would be my first job as a lender — stepping out from behind the sceens and being the customer’s point of contact. It taught me a lot about how to interact with the public and listening closely to the wants and needs that they are communicating.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
I feel banking is a great career because it helps people in a very important facet of their lives, their financial health and well-being.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The Iowa Bankers Association provides ongoing education and very important up-to-date regulations to help us to stay compliant.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I love to garden and play in the yard with my fur babies.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Be kind, generous and honest. Admire the authentic and teach others as you learn.