Bergman Says Banking Chose Her
One year after Marcy Bergman graduated high school, she learned of a teller opening at Northeast Security Bank. Thirty-one years later, she’s still at Northeast Security Bank and has had the opportunity to work in customer service, bookkeeping, lending, internal audits, compliance and as part of the executive management team. “I’d say banking initially chose me,” she said.
Today, Bergman is executive vice president, compliance officer, internal loan audit. “Banking is fun, creative, and fulfilling,” she said. … “Seeing and being a part of the progress in the banking industry provides great insights to what the future may hold.”
What drove you to choose a career in banking?
I’d say banking initially chose me. A year after graduating high school, an acquaintance called to let me know there was a teller position available. In August 1992, I started my banking career with Northeast Security Bank, where I remain 31 years later. Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in customer service, bookkeeping, lending, internal audits, compliance, and as part of the executive management team.
What is one lesson working in the banking industry has taught you, and how do you apply it to your everyday life?
The importance of your personal finances and the partnership with your bank is by far the biggest life lesson. Having financial goals and plans that are shared with your banker can be life changing. Bankers have the opportunity to see many different stories of both success and setbacks that provide a great wealth of wisdom that can be shared. With a personal and financial relationship with your banker, they can assist you with setting goals and understanding the importance of certain benchmarks. The wisdom that is shared can truly be life changing.
What is your best elevator pitch for why banking is a great career?
It sounds so cliché, but its true. Banking is fun, creative, and fulfilling. Every day offers a different set of challenges and opportunities. Seeing and being a part of the progress in the banking industry provides great insights to what the future may hold. From customer service to becoming a loan officer, marketing, branch manager or President, you can find your career in banking.
How does getting involved with the Iowa Bankers Association help you and your bank?
The Iowa Bankers Association has always been a part of Northeast Security Bank’s business plan. The IBA staff is nationally known for their expertise and educational opportunities that help progress the future of banking. We have utilized the IBA’s vast training opportunities that cover all aspects of our training needs. Many of our staff have attended seminars and conferences and have always come back with valuable pieces of information. I have been fortunate enough to be a part of the IBA Compliance Committee and the information, discussion and connections made have been a vital part of my banking journey.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do most?
I’m very fortunate that my family and children live close by. Spending time with our family and grandchildren is by far the most satisfying past time. For the past 13 years, I’ve owned and operated a photography studio that specializes in outdoor family sunset sessions. I also own and operate a local coffee shop (Fueled by Faith) in our hometown of Sumner.
What is a quote or guiding principle you live by?
Show up, pay attention, tell the truth and don’t get attached to the results.