BANKER Q&A
FIVE VE minutes with...
Gary Kleck
EVP/Chief Lending Officer Legacy National Bank, Springdale, AR
Q. HOW DID YOU GET
STARTED IN BANKING?
A.
I started in banking in 1985 as an examiner for the Arkansas State Bank Department. Banking interested me in college and I got to know several examiners after graduating from college. The State Bank Department seemed like a good avenue to gain a broad knowledge of banking rather quickly. I was able to meet many bankers across the state and those connections allowed me to enter into the private sector of banking in 1989.
Q. WHAT IS THE BEST
PART OF BEING A HOMETOWN BANKER?
A.
The best part of being a hometown banker is working for a bank where decisions are made locally by people that are well known in the community. Legacy encourages us to be involved in the community, which has allowed me to get to know many business owners and community leaders. The most rewarding part of being a community banker is helping people realize financial dreams. A community bank allows
more latitude to provide quick decisions and flexible products.
Q. WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE
DO YOU WISH YOU HAD KNOWN WHEN YOU STARTED YOUR CAREER?
A.
Take the time to really get to know your customer and don’t be afraid to lead with advice. Many times bankers become order takers and try to provide products and services without much
“The best part of being a hometown banker is working for a bank where decisions are made locally by people that are well known in the community. Legacy encourages us to be involved in the community, which has allowed me to get to know many business owners and community leaders.” 20
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WINTER 2020
