GCB expands technology while keeping in-person banking a priority
It’s been a banner year for Greater Community Bank with the hopes for expansions to tech offerings coming in 2022.
Coming off one of its strongest years, Greater Community Bank President and CEO David J. Lance said the bank has deepened its roots through expansion and growth in its 3 markets and well as providing some much-needed assistance to 335 local businesses during the global pandemic. That move helped to protect 8,067 jobs and bolster the economy in Northwest Georgia.
Helping the communities the bank is a part of is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
“Community is the foundation on which our bank is built,” Lance said.
But the thing he’s most proud of is a recognition from the bank’s employees.
The bank was recognized as one of the Best Banks to Work for by American Banker Magazine. As one of only two honored organizations in Georgia, GCB was ranked 19th out of 90 banking institutions across the country.
“Our team has worked hard to create a positive culture where all employees feel heard and valued,” Lance said. “This honor validates our commitment to provide the very best for our employees.”
The analysis is performed with the Best Companies Group, which conducts extensive employee surveys and reviews employer reports on benefits and policies. To be eligible, applicants must be
commercial or retail banks. They also must have at least 50 employees working in the United States.
One component in being selected with top honors was the ability to manage employee morale during a global pandemic by keeping employees engaged and motivated.
“Respect, collaboration and inclusion are a critical component to a thriving workplace,” Chief Operating Officer Donna McEntyre said. “Being recognized as a Best Bank to Work For is the greatest affirmation of success. Our people are at the center of all that we do and that is what makes this announcement so special.”
Having a workplace that people want to work in also leads to better, more personable customer service, Lance said.
The bank was founded by Thomas “Tom” D. Caldwell,
III, along with a group of his closest friends and associates, in 1996, and has
since expanded its footprint over the last 25 years to include Floyd, Gordon
and Bartow counties.
Following initial success in Rome, the Bank expanded into the Gordon County market in 2011 and more recent into Cartersville.
This past year GCB completed a complete renovation of their Calhoun office, nearly doubling the footprint and adding increased technological resources.
They’re also moving toward a core technological conversion early this year to add more digital opportunities for their customers.
“We’re seeing more of our customer base online,” Lance said, but stressed that when a customer needs to talk to a banker, they’ll be at the office to help. As large national banks continue to close branches, and reduce customer service, Lance said they’re hoping to expand.
“I think there’s the biggest need for local banking than there’s ever been,” He said.