For ENT650 we had to interivew someone in the financial business. I chose Becky Girard. She’s the Vice President, small Business Banking Officer at Hometrust Bank.
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
Native of Buncombe County – fifth generation Attended TC Roberson HS and AB Tech. Volunteer with MANNA, Salvation Army, and Honor Air Flights
Two adult children and grandmother to two young girls.
I’ve been in retail and commercial banking for 37 years. Beginning my career on the retail side of a Savings and Loan worked for the company for 22 years, opportunity presented itself to work for one of the large corporate banks. In working for the Corporate bank, I transitioned to the commercial / business side – working with business with $5 – $10mm in revenue or less – I’ve remained in the commercial / business side since 2003.
2. What does your typical day look like?
Every day is different – that’s what makes the position so interesting. Usually, I’m scheduling appointments one to two weeks in advance. On average spending 50% out of the office calling on prospects and existing clients. With the prospects you’re attempting to earn their business and with existing clients expanding their relationship. There are lots of emails, phone calls, texting any and all types of communication.
Once a prospect is committed to HomeTrust Bank to move forward with a loan request financials are collected on the borrower and guarantors, the structure is discussed with the borrower and sometimes discussed again until a mutual agreement is made. Should the loan be a line of credit or a term loan, what’s the collateral, is the request seasonal, what’s the purpose? It’s not a one size fits all.
A credit memo is required with all loans, giving the particulars on the borrower, what type of
Business and its history, is there a special niche in the market place, what customers do they serve, what’s the purpose of the request, etc. Next step is to analyze the financials – can they afford to borrow the money requested.
