A bank that’s still hiring?

Chances are if we're reading about "jobs" and "banks," the news is focused on layoffs.  So it came as a welcome surprise to find a community bank in California–a state with severe financial troubles–that's not only surviving, but thriving.  That means hiring too. 

John Conover, president and CEO of Borel Private Bank & Trust Company, explains how this is possible and the kind of employees he looks for.  

Borel has always taken a very conservative approach to banking. Deposits are up, and we’re experiencing strong growth. Our clients trust us and that comes from hiring the right executives, who understand how to connect with and serve our clients. We are continually adding bankers who understand that we are a relationship-oriented community bank. More and more customers are looking for a long-term relationship with their bank—something hard to find elsewhere, as major banks merge and established banks disappear—and this relationship is something we can provide and nurture. Unlike our competitors, we expect to continue to see strong growth, and we will continue to hire bankers who understand that customer care and service are key for all community banks.

Q) What do you look for in candidates that may be different from the giants?

Again, the key ingredient we are looking for is the ability to work with people and build client relationships. Many bankers, especially those at community banks, have solid relationships with their clients and take pride in their ability to work with those clients year after year—from residential and commercial lending to college and retirement savings. We look for a track record of broad banking experience, but we also look at how the candidate works within the community. Are they participating in their local community? Are they involved with and supporting nonprofits? Their sense of civic responsibility in the community is equally important to us.

Q) Who’s ripe for a career at a community bank right now?

A person who is interested in working directly with individuals—who  understands the power and importance of developing those client relationships—is someone who should consider a career at a community bank.  It’s not just about numbers, it’s about relationships built with trust and maintained with excellent service and attention to details. People who are serious about making their community a better place and helping individuals, families and small businesses succeed financially are ready for a career in community banking.

John Conover is president and CEO of Borel Private Bank & Trust Company, headquartered in San Mateo, California.  Prior to joining Borel, Mr. Conover served as executive vice president at Bank of America.  A 30-year industry veteran, Mr. Conover has been involved in every aspect of banking, including commercial banking and the management of 225 branches of Bank of America. He is a noted philanthropist, having served on the boards of a number San Francisco Bay Area charities.