Q: Tell us your background.
A: I started my banking career in 1999 as a loan officer. I then transitioned to roles in IT, shifted again to compliance, BSA and audit. In 2023, I was promoted to branch president of Dream First Bank in Syracuse.
Q: How do you construct your day for optimal productivity?
A: I always have a list of what my daily, weekly and monthly tasks are to stay on track.
Q: How do you keep track of tasks?
A: My BSA software alerts me to time-sensitive tasks. For compliance, a third-party vendor provides daily summaries of rule changes and deadlines. I also rely heavily on my Outlook calendar.
Q: Take us through a typical workday.
A: I first check my BSA software to ensure all feeds are completed. My mornings often include assisting customers and loan officers. I then focus on BSA projects and address any unfinished tasks in the afternoon alongside compliance work.
Q: What's the best advice you have for others in your role?
A: Compliance roles may not seem glamorous, but they’re crucial for a bank’s success. Enforcing necessary changes can be tough, but compliance is key.
Q: Who are the people who help you get things done?
A: Success requires everyone’s involvement. Tellers, the call center and operations play a vital role in BSA and compliance.
Q: How does your bank use training in succession planning?
A: Succession planning is not only about filling positions but ensuring smooth transitions. We offer a mix of third-party and in-house training to prepare employees.
Q: What is your favorite thing about the ICBA Compliance Institute or our other conferences you may have attended?
A: Gaining fresh perspectives on current issues and regulatory topics is valuable. The best part is the network of people I’ve met who I can always rely on.
Q: How have your designations affected your career/role at the bank?
A: Earning my certifications has expanded my knowledge and connected me with a network of community bankers. It’s been well worth the time and effort to obtain the designations.
ICBA debuts new certification programs
Certified Community Bank Data Analyst (CCBDA)
Discover the power of data at the ICBA Data & Analytics Institute June 10–12, 2025, where you will learn about effective data analytics methods and earn your CCBDA.
Certified Community Bank Marketing Strategist (CCBMS)
Get your CCBMS certifcation at the Oct. 6–9, 2025, ICBA Marketing Institute education event, which covers customer engagement, content and digital marketing strategies.
Visit icba.org/education/seminars-and-institutes for further details.
