From Retail to Banking, Merschman a Dual Threat
In football, you often hear of the advantages of a dual-threat quarterback, but Grace Merschman has proven to be a different kind of dual threat. Before joining the banking industry she worked in retail management. Although her career path has shifted, she hasn’t abandoned her roots in retail. She and her husband own a local hardware store. “Leaning on my husband’s expertise in [hardware] and having him lean on my financial expertise made for a fun and unique experience,” she said.
Merschman, a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, first joined Clinton National Bank as an assistant branch manager and worked her way toward her current role of assistant vice president, mortgage loan officer at First Central State Bank in Eldridge. “I love how each week brings new challenges and you are always learning since policies and procedures change so much,” she said.
How did you get into banking as a career?
I had management background in retail before shifting to banking. I started my banking career as an assistant branch manager at Clinton National Bank.
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 am currently still an owner of Merschman Ace Hardware with my husband. I would say for me personally, it is definitely the most interesting job I have held. Although I have 12-plus years of management experience, hardware was not my expertise. So leaning on my husband’s expertise in that area and having him lean on my financial expertise made for a fun and unique experience. The biggest lesson it has taught me is that there is always room for improvement, no matter what area of your life it is. Whether it’s your business, your relationships or even your personal character, there is always room for improvement.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
I believe banking is a great career because there are so many different opportunities within a financial institution. There is a lot of room for upward mobility within the right financial institution and so many different areas within a bank that you could learn and expand your knowledge that could lead to a promotion or even a lateral move that you might love! I love how each week brings new challenges and you are always learning since policies and procedures change so much. And lastly, having a career in banking most of the time gives you a great work/life balance which I have deeply appreciated!
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
It can help make sure we have the most up to date information and trainings which can help us be successful within our roles as well as make sure we stay within compliance with all of the regulatory requirements.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and kids when I do have free time. We like to travel to Louisiana, where we used to live and where my children were born when we are able too!
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
If not now, then when, and if not me, then who?