Amanda Hamilton, the branch manager for West Plains Bank and Trust Company in Houston, marks a milestone this month, celebrating her third anniversary with the institution. Her time at West Plains Bank highlights a successful journey in the banking industry that began 16 years ago when she first dipped her toes into the financial world, seeking a job that would accommodate her family’s needs.
Starting as a part-time employee at a local bank, Hamilton quickly found her calling. “You’ll know within a month or so if banking is the right fit for you,” her supervisor had advised. True to those words, Hamilton’s career path, which spanned roles in retail banking, loan processing and human resources, solidified her passion for the financial sector.
Three years ago, a call from David M. Gohn, the president and CEO of West Plains Bank, set the stage for Hamilton’s latest chapter. Gohn was preparing to expand the bank’s presence into the Houston market and identified Hamilton as the ideal leader for the new branch. A subsequent meeting with Jolene Howell, director of retail banking, and Ann Marie Newberry, chief marketing and communications officer, sealed the deal for Hamilton.
Reflecting on the decision to join West Plains Bank, Hamilton said, “After that meeting, I knew I was meant for this community bank. We know the needs of our customers and take our motto, ‘Every customer leaves a friend,’ seriously.”
Hamilton’s leadership in Houston has been characterized by her deep commitment to the community and her ability to forge lasting relationships with her clients, officials noted.Her approach goes beyond traditional banking; she focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere where every customer indeed feels like a friend. This ethos has been central to her success and the bank’s growth in the area.
Under her guidance, the Houston branch has seen significant growth in customer base and service offerings, adapting to the unique needs of the community and ensuring that the bank’s solutions are tailored to meet those needs effectively, said officials.
Looking ahead, Hamilton remains enthusiastic about the future.
“I’ve built countless relationships in my three years with the Bank and haven’t once felt regret for taking this leap,” she remarked. Her plans include further embedding the bank into the fabric of Houston through various community engagement initiatives and continuing to enhance the bank’s offerings to serve the evolving needs of her customers better.
