Vicki Anderson, vice president and commercial lender for 1NB, recently shared her thoughts and experiences on the ground women have made (and broken) in the profession and the large roles they play at 1NB. The bank even offers a special program, First Ladies, that is tailored to its women customers.
What was your first job in banking?
I was lucky early in my career to start in a position where I could develop relationships with customers. I worked for First Oklahoma Trust Co. in downtown Oklahoma City as a new account representative. My passion for helping people is what led me to the pursuit of a banking career.
Your educational background?
I earned my bachelor of science degree in marketing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and my MBA from Oklahoma City University.
Other than tellers, banking has traditionally been a male-dominated field, right?
This may have been true in the past, but the balance is shifting, and more women are taking positions of leadership. The banking industry has made great strides in paving the way for women. At 1NB, we are proud to invest in our female leaders. Our bank’s officer structure is composed of 75% females. Banking is a wonderful career choice for women, with many opportunities for growth and advancement.
Do you believe that, as a woman, you bring any special insights, sensitivities, knowledge or other traits that serve you well overall in this field and in your current position?
As a woman, I bring compassion, empathy and a servant’s heart attitude, which serves relationship banking well. I want my customers to feel valued and to know I can be trusted to always do what is in their best interest. My parents taught me the value of hard work, to live by the Golden Rule and the value of mutual care within the community, and this has carried over to my career as a community banker.
Do you believe your bank is especially supportive of women—both as employees and prospective customers?
1NB is supportive of all its employees. When I began working for 1NB in 2015, I was impressed by the longevity of employees; many have tenure that expands for decades.
What are some of the ways you/your bank in general can help both women and men that may not be widely known?
Women are important to 1NB. That is why we have an exclusive program developed with ladies in mind, First Ladies. It’s an exciting way for women customers to enjoy quality social functions, the fun of group travel and the joys of friendship in a comfortable, well-organized and safe environment. To be a “First Lady,” a customer must have a minimum of $10,000 on deposit with 1NB. It can be a combination of accounts—for example, a CD, checking and savings. There is no age requirement. Under the direction of Vicky Tyler, senior vice president, and Becky Graves, vice president, the First Ladies enjoy group travels, seminars and luncheons. We welcome women interested in becoming a member of the First Ladies to reach out to us. Come find out why we believe that First Ladies is second to none! Upcoming trips include Colors of New England featuring coastal Maine, departing Oct. 10; Christmas in London, departing Dec. 2; and Classical Greece, departing March 13, 2022. Come and join the fun!
Your short- and long-term goals?
My goals are pretty simple: each day I strive to do my very best for my employer and for my customers, to treat others fairly with kindness and respect.
Family? Pets? Hobbies?
My husband, Jeff, and I, have three sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandsons. We are looking forward to welcoming a new granddaughter to the family in May. I enjoy spending time with my family and spending time outdoors. One of my favorite hobbies is teaching water aerobics each summer at our neighborhood pool.
Finally, please provide some info about your bank. In short, what makes it stand above its competitors?
1NB was established in 1889 in Ardmore. We are the oldest bank in the state of Oklahoma. When you walk into our office, it is like walking into our home; it is warm and welcoming. Our customers love the intimate environment with a private banking feel.
1NB
716 Wall St., Norman
325.LOAN