Branch Manager - Gary Midtown - Since 2003

"Since joining the bank, Centier has exposed my life to various opportunities, experiences, and extensive training that has cultivated my professional career and personal path. Centier encourages its employees to create and achieve a work-life balance through five shared values: Respect, Friendship, Caring, Loyalty, and Integrity. Centier is not simply my employer; the bank has helped me to create and achieve balance in my lifestyle."

— Dakita Jones

Branch Manager - Crown Point Downtown - Since 2000

"A little over 10 years ago, I was working as a Production Manager at a chemical plant in Chicago Heights, Illinois. All I knew about banking was how to deposit my paycheck through the drive-up lane. When the production plant closed, I was forced to find a new job. One day, I found myself wondering what it would be like to work at Centier. I had no idea that I would find success doing this type of work, and that I would enjoy working so closely with the public.

Centier Bank has an excellent training program, which helped prepare me to handle a variety of client situations, and to manage a diverse group of associates. As I look back on things, what I thought was the worst thing that could happen, ended-up being one of the best things that could have happened to me."

— Dave Giedemann

Prime Time Banker CSR/CSC - Since 2000

"I am honored to have an important role at Centier. As a Prime Time Banker, I fill various roles to lead and support branch teams throughout the week. Whether its opening new accounts, filling in on the teller line, training a new associate, or leading in a supervisory role, I must be a flexible and dependable representative of Centier.

Centier has given me so many opportunities to strengthen the skills that I have. Through education and training, I have been able to coach others and help them achieve their best. I take pride in knowing that associates and clients can depend on me for successful results."

— Donna King

AVP Loan Operations - Operations Center - Since 1996

"I began working at Centier (part-time) 15 years ago in the investment department. I quickly realized there were many opportunities for growth within the organization and I worked with Human Resources to path my career with the bank. With the help of the associate tuition reimbursement program, I was able to go back to school and complete my associate's degree."

— Evelyn Kijewski

Mortgage Loan Officer - Since 2007

"I started working part-time in the Client Service Center, while finishing my undergraduate degree. At first, I did not expect to make a career of this part-time job, but I soon realized that the love and support I received from management and co-workers was not something that I was willing to give up so easily. My work schedule was arranged so that I never had a conflict with my school schedule. Centier let me know that education was a top priority.

I realized that when the values of a company are aligned directly with your personal beliefs and vision, you should stick with it. Years later, in my current role, I can still count Centier providing me the tools needed for career growth and am surrounded by a team that is supportive and caring."

— Jason Harris