Best Banks to Work For 2024 with less than $3B of assets

November 13, 2024 12:00 PM

Small banks once again dominated American Banker's Best Banks to Work For annual ranking. Of this year's 90 honorees, 59 had less than $3 billion of assets.

Note: Asset sizes are from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. as of June 30. Employee headcounts were provided by the banks.

For additional Best Banks to Work For coverage, please see: Best Banks to Work For 2024

Employees of 1st Summit Bank celebrate by sponsoring Polkafest. All employees receive cash awards when the company meets its annual financial targets.

1st Summit Bank

Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Assets: $1.4 billion

President and CEO: J. Eric Renner

No. of U.S. employees: 244

At 1st Summit Bank, all employees receive cash awards when the company meets its annual financial targets. How much? Between 5% and 6% of their total yearly salary. Such awards, which have been paid out for 33 consecutive years, are part of a broader rewards system that includes semi-annual bonuses for exemplary performance and quarterly lunches that recognize employees' outstanding achievements.

This year, 1st Summit plans to implement recommendations from a compensation and performance management analysis, along with a diversity, equity and inclusion program and an employee development and training program that includes a formal leadership training plan, Renner said.

The enthusiastic involvement of First United Bank STARS helped make Lemonade Day a sweet success for these young entrepreneurs.

First United Bank

Lubbock, Texas

Assets: $2.2 billion

CEO: R. Mark Bain

No. of U.S. employees: 253

First United Bank's late CEO, Ray M. Bain, once said the company's success is not just a result of customer loyalty but also a direct reflection of the people it hires and their commitment to the bank and the communities it serves. First United's current leadership still feels that way. Employees, which the bank calls "STARS," are First United's greatest asset and the reason that customers chose the bank, the company said.

To support workers, First United is developing an accountability-based employee wellness program for full-time employees. The program, which is expected to roll out in January 2025, will include incentives for participation, nutrition programs, mental health support services, exercise reimbursements and routine health screenings and assessments.

The Farmers Bank sponsors a cookie-decorating event for women.

The Farmers Bank

Portland, Tennessee

Assets: $846.4 million

President and CEO: Andy Nash

No. of U.S. employees: 153

The Farmers Bank has conducted employee exit interviews for years. This year, the Tennessee bank expanded on that idea by rolling out so-called stay interviews, which are meant to gather feedback from mid-career employees to help retain them and meet their career-related goals.

The bank also offers a mentorship program for that group as well as new hires. Each month, the public relations team publishes a profile on an employee, an effort that's meant to showcase interesting life stories and the diversity of the team.

SouthWest Bank's Midland, Texas, staff has a designated trash pickup day as part of the Keep Midland Beautiful program.

SouthWest Bank

Odessa, Texas

Assets: $657.9 million

CEO: Paul Weaver

No. of U.S. employees: 118

SouthWest Bank wants to be mindful of employees' wellbeing and supportive of their individual goals. One of the resources that SouthWest offers to staff members is a professional development group that provides employees with training in areas such as mental health and wellness and how to use Microsoft 365 to improve efficiencies. The bank also brings in health experts for lunch-and-learn programs that focus on meditation, diet and financial education.

In addition, it offers paid volunteer hours as a way to encourage more employees to get involved in their communities. In conjunction with the recent launch of a new bank-wide phone system, SouthWest implemented a communication plan to ensure a smooth transition from the old system and offered employee training opportunities in various formats.

Martha's Vineyard Bank employees enjoy the annual summer employee and family clambake.

Martha's Vineyard Bank

Martha’s Vineyard Bank

Edgartown, Massachusetts

Assets: $1.3 billion

President and CEO: James Anthony

No. of U.S. employees: 112

Martha's Vineyard Bank took a big step this year to stabilize its workforce and help address employees' housing needs. Against the backdrop of high home prices and limited housing options on the island, the bank rolled out a workforce housing program through which it purchases residential housing units and rents them to employees at subsidized rates. Over time, the fixed depreciation of the properties will be covered by rent payments. Other perks for employees include regular workday food delivery such as lunch or ice cream, matching charitable giving, paid volunteer hours and a bank-funded donation of $1,000 per employee that goes toward each employees' local nonprofit organization of choice.

Last year, Martha's Vineyard Bank became the first bank in Massachusetts to receive "B Corporation" certification, which means it is meeting certain high standards in areas such as employee benefits, charitable giving, supply chain practices, legal accountability and transparency.

FirstBank Southwest CEO Andy Marshall takes several pies to the face to raise money for the United Way.

FirstBank Southwest

Amarillo, Texas

Assets: $1.8 billion

President and CEO: Andy Marshall

No. of U.S. employees: 232

FirstBank Southwest is guided by the motto "Faith. Family. Bank." In the spirit of family, the bank is forming an "employee benevolence program" where employees can donate to a fund that will provide monetary assistance to colleagues who have short-term financial needs, President and CEO Andy Marshall said.

FirstBank Southwest is also interested in improving its employees' work experience. It recently upgraded its email and core systems and moved to a Zoom communication platform, Marshall said. He gives credit to employees' "hard work, dedication and leadership [which] has grown the bank to what it is today."

Capital Bank holds an annual Halloween costume contest and party.

Capital Bank, N.A

Capital Bank

Rockville, Maryland

Assets: $2.6 billion

CEO: Ed Barry

No. of U.S. employees: 307

Capital Bank has made it a priority to take care of its employees. The bank has launched an employee reward and recognition program, formalized its hybrid work strategy and rolled out a mandatory three-day, in-person training initiative for all new hires, CEO Ed Barry said. Dubbed "Immersion," the program offers new employees the chance to meet with senior leaders and learn about the bank's businesses and how it operates.

In addition, Capital Bank, which just completed the acquisition of Integrated Financial Holdings in Raleigh, North Carolina, is launching the next installment of its 12-month leadership program for emerging mid-level managers and offering a toolkit to help managers better support and manage their associate-level employees in a remote world.

Tioga State Bank staff at the Conklin Avenue branch in Binghamton, New York, celebrate the bank's 160th anniversary.

Tioga State Bank

Spencer, New York

Assets: $588.9 million

President and CEO: Robert Fisher

No. of U.S. employees: 105

This year, Tioga State Bank created a clothing donation program for employees. TSB Clothing Closet is an online catalog of new and gently used professional attire that's available on the bank's intranet. Employees can donate items to the closet as well as request items from the closet.

The bank, which is celebrating its 160th anniversary in 2024, also created a committee to evaluate the work culture and recommend areas for improvement. So far, the Excellence Committee has developed a new vision statement, modified some of the bank's core values and created standards of excellence.

ACCESSbank's team volunteers with Habitat for Humanity to create homes and strengthen the local community.

ACCESSbank

Omaha, Nebraska

Assets: $995.8 million

Chair and CEO: Patrick Corrigan

No. of U.S. employees: 126

ACCESSbank recently introduced a pair of initiatives designed to build a stronger link between bank leaders and the workforce. The first is the implementation of a question-and-answer session during quarterly all-employee meetings, whereby employees are guaranteed to receive an answer to all submitted questions.

The second is an enhancement of the bank's "Lunch Lotto" program, in which two individuals from the executive team have lunch with team members from across the organization. During the lunch, team members are invited to suggest something that ACCESSbank should start, stop, keep doing or reevaluate. Both initiatives are meant to foster transparency and collaboration.

Employees of 1st Security Bank celebrate by dressing up as characters from the board game Clue.

1st Security Bank

Mountlake Terrace, Washington

Assets: $2.9 billion

CEO: Joe Adams

No. of U.S. employees: 560

This year, 1st Security Bank bolstered its benefits program by offering an employee spending account that covers massages, gym memberships and more, and by adding behavioral and mental health management options such as the Headspace app. The bank has also been keenly focused on making sure that its newest employees are being appropriately supported.

As part of the recent integration of seven new branches in another state, 1st Security incorporated both in-person and Zoom visits with those new employees, both to their offices and to 1st Security's administrative building. "We didn't want the distance to be a negative on our new employees," CEO Joe Adams said.

First Citizens National Bank employees at the Newbern, Tennessee, Financial Center celebrate "National Dog Day" by bringing their fur babies to work.

First Citizens National Bank

Dyersburg, Tennessee

Assets: $2.4 billion

Chair and CEO: Jeff Agee

No. of U.S. employees: 312

First Citizens National Bank made a number of recent improvements designed to enhance the employee experience. It expanded its wellness incentives program, developed quick reference notes for sales employees and increased starting pay to $18 per hour, with a goal to offer $20 to $22 per hour by 2025.

It started an employee alumni group, launched a new online job application process and reduced the amount of time that new employees must wait to contribute to their 401(k), shifting it from one year from the employment start date to 60 days. Those actions and more are part of First Citizens' aim to be an "Unbelievably Good" employer.

Bank of Charles Town employees, shown here in the "BCT Circle of Arms," perform community service together and can participate in certification programs.

BCT - Bank of Charles Town

Bank of Charles Town

Charles Town, West Virginia

Assets: $831.4 million

President and CEO: Alice Frazier

No. of U.S. employees: 124

Starting this year, Bank of Charles Town added a new element to the company's monthly anniversary lunches. Each luncheon day now begins at the local Meals on Wheels or at a food and clothing bank, where President Alice Frazier and employees work together to deliver meals or sort food and clothing. "The opportunity to serve together … not only brings us closer as a team but provides an opportunity for empathy experiences that help us to remember our community roots and to value everyone," said Frazier, who continues to join employees for their anniversary lunch and uses the time to collect feedback and recommendations for improvements.

The bank also introduced a four-step universal banker certification program, which will help employees earn pay raises, and a similar program for call-center employees. The goal is to offer certification programs for all hourly employees by the middle of 2025.

Cindy Hopper and Charity Wallace, employees of the United Community Bank of West Kentucky, serve on the local Happy Packs board. This group sends home backpacks of food every weekend with elementary students who need them. UCB donates $50 for every touchdown our high school football team makes during the season.

United Community Bank of West Kentucky

Morganfield, Kentucky

Assets: $462.9 million

President: Gwen Paris

No. of U.S. employees: 62

United Community Bank of West Kentucky is shifting to Microsoft Teams and Sharepoint as part of an effort to improve employee collaboration on tasks and projects and increase overall productivity. The bank prides itself on being active and engaged in the communities it serves and the activities in which employees participate. It offers year-end bonuses, "jeans days" that raise money for charity and learning and development opportunities to any employee who expresses interest.

BankNewport made a $50,000 donation to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank this year.

BankNewport

Middletown, Rhode Island

Assets: $2.8 billion

President and CEO: Jack Murphy

No. of U.S. employees: 330

Like many other banks, BankNewport's recent challenges include a tight labor market, President and CEO Jack Murphy said. The company implemented a paid parental leave benefit—16 weeks of paid leave for the birth of a child and six weeks of paid leave for non-birthing parents, with the option for flexible work arrangements upon returning to work after the arrival of a new child. In addition, BankNewport introduced a new company-wide recognition program for managers and employees. The company said it is evaluating additional benefits and programs that would provide further flexibility and support to the workforce, either at work or at home.

Centreville Bank employees celebrate the company's 195th birthday in 2023.

Centreville Bank

West Warwick, Rhode Island

Assets: $2.7 billion

Chair, president and CEO: Harold Horvat

No. of U.S. employees: 252

Centreville Bank took its employee health and wellness program to another level by building an onsite fitness center with a cardio and weight room, a yoga and stretch room and a relaxation room. The bank also provides nutrition coaching and fitness events throughout the year, reimbursement for gym memberships, at least 23 days of paid time off for new hires and a robust employee recognition program.

It recently launched a learning and development offering for employees to receive enhanced onboarding, training and career development programs. All of those efforts are part of a "long-term approach to employee well-being by providing exceptional benefits to help employees live a healthy and fulfilling life," the bank said.

At Ledyard National Bank's annual Halloween celebration, the back-office Staff opt for a "Where's Waldo?" theme.

Valerie Valdivia

Ledyard National Bank

Hanover, New Hampshire

Assets: $907.2 million

President and CEO: Josephine Moran

No. of U.S. employees: 117

Ledyard National Bank makes a point to prioritize employees' work-life balance, in part by offering flexible work arrangements and 22 non-holiday days of paid time off after one year of employment. All Ledyard employees are shareholders, which helps create a sense of ownership and pride in the company's collective success. A peer-to-peer employee recognition program called "You Make Life Better" rewards staff members with gift cards won through a quarterly raffle drawing. The bank said that it invests in employees' futures as a way to keep them motivated and show how they are valued.

TriStar Bank CEO Ted Williams gives the annual CARE award to banker Alley Murphy. The CARE award goes to the banker who demonstrates our culture of CARE (concerned, attentive, while going the extra mile).

Eran Davis/Eran Davis

TriStar Bank

Dickson, Tennessee

Assets: $490.5 million

President and CEO: Ted Williams

No. of U.S. employees: 82

To help alleviate talent attraction and retention challenges, TriStar Bank increased the number of paid time off days, implemented paid parental leave and paid sabbatical programs and began awarding stock options for officer-level employees. In addition, the company recently started an incentive program to encourage employees to refer candidates for job openings. For each referral they make, employees receive $50. If the new hire successfully completes a 90-day introductory period, the referring employee receives an additional $500.

"This program encourages our bankers to look for candidates that they would want to work with," President and CEO Ted Williams said.

Manasquan Bank celebrates its 2023 Leadership Development graduates.

Manasquan Bank

Wall Township, New Jersey

Assets: $3 billion

Chair, president and CEO: James Vaccaro

No. of U.S. employees: 249

Employees are Manasquan Bank's greatest asset, the bank said. The company demonstrates this in several ways, including training programs, mentorship opportunities, flexible schedules, remote work options and a comprehensive benefits package. Employees are encouraged to volunteer through Manasquan's CREW Cares employee volunteering program, which finds volunteer opportunities throughout New Jersey.

To support employees at work, Manasquan offers monthly wellness and professional development classes, both in-person and virtually. Topics include resilience in the workplace, the five levels of effective leadership, active listening and stress management.

The United Bank Community Development team co-hosted a successful regional LAMA reception during the Main Street Now Conference held in Birmingham, Alabama.

United Bank

Atmore, Alabama

Assets: $1.2 billion

President and CEO: Mike Vincent

No. of U.S. employees: 216

United Bank, which has been a community development financial institution for more than a decade, introduced a volunteer program in 2024 that compensates employees for up to four hours of paid volunteer time at bank-sponsored events and with organizations that support the CDFI mission of expanding economic opportunities in underserved markets.

"We are incredibly proud of our culture of doing well by doing good," President and CEO Mike Vincent said.

The bank, which serves southwest Alabama and northwest Florida, also plans to reintroduce its employee stock purchase plan, Vincent added.

Broadstreet Bank received the LiFE Award from the Texas Bankers Foundation. This award celebrates banks that are dedicated leaders in promoting financial education in their communities.

Broadstreet Bank, SSB

Broadstreet Bank

Mineola, Texas

Assets: $450.8 million

CEO: Jason Sobel

No. of U.S. employees: 70

Broadstreet Bank, formerly known as Mineola Community Bank, opted for a name change in 2023, part of an effort to appeal to customers who live outside the company's hometown of Mineola, Texas, CEO Jason Sobel said. Employees at Broadstreet receive training and professional development opportunities, small group visits with the CEO and access to the company car.

The company recently upgraded its communication software to Microsoft Teams and added a projector and a 12-foot screen to the boardroom "to make it easy to see and read for trainings and presentations," Sobel said. It's also helped with overall communication, allowing employees to "see and hear the same message," he said.

Servbank employees do volunteer work in their company jerseys.

Servbank

Oswego, Illinois

Assets: $793.9 million

CEO: Donald Satiroff

No. of U.S. employees: 492

Servbank is the new name of the savings bank formerly known as Allied First Bank, which was headquartered in Illinois and acquired by Servbank Holding Co. in 2022. The bank has undergone a lot of change in recent years, which has opened the door to review some of its employee-focused policies. It examined its hiring practices to make sure that it could "continue to effectively onboard" new employees, which "has resulted in clear standards for potential candidates, an improved candidate experience and a greater degree of success when evaluating candidates for their alignment" with the bank's core values, CEO Donald Satiroff said.

Bank Five Nine employees volunteer at Junior Achievement BizTown.

Bank Five Nine

Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Assets: $2.1 billion

President and CEO: Tim Schneider

No. of U.S. employees: 351

Bank Five Nine said it strives to be a top-choice employer that values its workforce. The company provides continuing education opportunities and a week-long "learning camp" that offers virtual and in-person sessions on leadership, wellbeing, technology, banking and the company's mission to make lives better. It will reimburse employees up to $100 annually when they buy fitness- and wellness-related items such as weights, workout classes or gym memberships.

To keep morale high, Bank Five Nine hosts monthly events and an employee appreciation week. It recently remodeled a corporate office storage room into an employee-focused space with a kitchen, a pool table, a television and video games.

First Metro Bank employees hand out goodies at the bank's annual "Sax in the City" concert in Florence, Alabama. Proceeds benefit the Music Preservation Society. 

First Metro Bank

Muscle Shoals, Alabama

Assets: $968.2 million

President and CEO: Rodney Howard

No. of U.S. employees: 142

Human capital is a critical component of success at First Metro Bank, which operates 11 branches in Alabama. Last year, the community bank made use of a bank holiday to host a multi-session training day for all employees, which gave them the opportunity to spend time with colleagues.

This year, it is starting roundtable discussions for different departments, where employees can gather with those in similar jobs to ask questions and talk about different issues. "This has provided clarity to our employees on various subject matters and provided efficiencies across the bank," President and CEO Rodney Howard said.

Evergreen Bank employees enjoy lunch after volunteering to teach financial literacy to students at a Chicago school.

Evergreen Bank Group

Oak Brook, Illinois

Assets: $1.5 billion

President and CEO: Darin Campbell

No. of U.S. employees: 197

Against a backdrop of high inflation and rising living costs, Evergreen Bank Group made a decision this year to absorb any increases in employees' health insurance premiums. It was "a way to alleviate" some of the financial burden on employees, President and CEO Darin Campbell said.

The bank also added pet insurance to its benefits offerings and instituted a mandatory time-off policy that requires all employees to take at least one week away from work. During that week away, employees are barred from accessing any of the bank's systems, which is a way of "pushing all employees to fully unplug," Campbell said.

Machias Savings Bank employees volunteer at Agassiz Village, a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for children in underserved communities.

Machias Savings Bank

Machias, Maine

Assets: $2.6 billion

President and CEO: Lawrence Barker

No. of U.S. employees: 297

In the higher interest rate environment, margin compression has been a major challenge for Machias Savings Bank. The community bank responded by focusing on expense management, but it stuck to its commitment not to lay off staffers, President and CEO Lawrence Barker said. Instead, it reduced headcount "through normal attrition opportunities," Barker said.

Last year, Machias became the first bank in Maine to offer a flexible time-off program. Employees, who now receive unlimited time off, have reported an increase in workplace motivation due to the new policy, the bank said.

Employees of Savings Bank of Walpole and their families enjoy a night out at local Swamp Bats baseball game.

Savings Bank of Walpole

Walpole, New Hampshire

Assets: $764.9 million

President: Mark Bodin

No. of U.S. employees: 101

Savings Bank of Walpole is proud of its annual employee retention rate, which continues to exceed 90%. To help entice employees to stick around, the bank offers above-market benefits, generous paid time off and a flexible work schedule. It created a staff-driven diversity, equity and inclusion committee as well as caregiver- and mental health-focused employee support groups.

It also introduced a program in which senior leaders meet with employees at breakfast to talk about the bank and share ideas. Those efforts and more create "relative ease in filling new and open positions," President Mark Bodin said.

Employees of Peoples Bank of East Tennessee get together to bowl.

Peoples Bank of East Tennessee

Madisonville, Tennessee

Assets: $385.7 million

President and CEO: Jeremy Callais

No. of U.S. employees: 113

Peoples Bank of East Tennessee identified two key recent challenges: this year's transition to a new CEO and employee recruitment and retention issues, which have been impacted by the retirement of older workers and the hurdle of bringing workers back into the office after the pandemic. In response, the bank has tried to offer creative benefits and improve its work culture. For example, employees are rewarded at random with gifts, such as $100 bills, and management often pays for lunch.

The bank has also put together new programs that target culture and retention, including a program called IGNITE, which brings together a group of future leaders within the bank to organize employee-focused events.

Members of the operations department at Pacific National Bank celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

Pacific National Bank

Miami, Florida

Assets: $1.2 billion

President and CEO: Carlos Fernandez-Guzman

No. of U.S. employees: 114

Like many banks, Pacific National Bank has wrestled with rising deposit costs while trying to reduce expenses. Still, layoffs were not part of the solution. The bank "rejected any thought of workforce reduction," President and CEO Carlos Fernandez-Guzman said. So instead of cutting jobs, the bank hired a specialized deposit team to focus on relationship banking and expanded its physical branch network to new markets. "Our most valued asset is our people and keeping the team whole is the appropriate strategic decision," Fernandez-Guzman said.

Chesapeake Bank employees volunteer for YMCA Bright Beginnings, helping families prepare for a successful school year.

Chesapeake Bank

Kilmarnock, Virginia

Assets: $1.5 billion

Chair, president and CEO: Jeffrey Szyperski

No. of U.S. employees: 291

In the past year, Chesapeake Bank has taken a step to provide mental health support to employees by launching the ICU (I See You) committee. "Given that this is a national crisis, we felt proactivity here was the right thing to do," CEO Jeffrey Szyperski said. Meanwhile, the company continues its virtual bankwide coffee breaks, which were started during the pandemic to keep employees connected. The virtual gatherings cover industry updates, question-and-answer sessions to employees up to date on company happenings and "dad jokes" at the start of every session.

Cornerstone Bank presents a $25,000 donation to Our Bright Future in Southbridge, Massachusetts.

Cornerstone Bank

Southbridge, Massachusetts

Assets: $1.6 billion

CEO: Todd Tallman

No. of U.S. employees: 184

In addition to traditional employee benefits, Cornerstone Bank offers tuition reimbursement, a student loan pay-down program, pet insurance and a paid volunteer day. The bank, whose parent company has agreed to a merger with Holyoke, Massachusetts-based PeoplesBancorp, was formed in 2017 and promotes a workplace culture rooted in key themes such as teamwork, relationships, and transparency.

"Cornerstone Bank has some of the most talented lending individuals in Worcester County and I am honored to lead this group," said CEO Todd Tallman, who is set to become the president of the combined company. "While many other banks and businesses have struggled to find and keep top talent, we have had tremendous success both hiring and retaining our workforce."

Peoples State Bank employees enjoy taking selfies during an activity at their President's Day event in Lambeau Field.

Peoples State Bank

Wausau, Wisconsin

Assets: $1.5 billion

President and CEO: Scott Cattanach

No. of U.S. employees: 201

Earlier this year, the leadership team at Peoples State Bank introduced a new set of values — hungry, humble and smart — during an employee gathering. Inspired by an executive team-building initiative centered around the book "The Ideal Team Player" by Patrick Lencioni, bank leadership provided training to all employees that focused on the characteristics of being hungry (passionate about the bank's mission), humble (prioritizing teamwork over individual wins) and smart (being self-aware), and how those three virtues would be embedded into hiring, performance reviews, manager check-ins and meetings.

"The executive team found this structure to be impactful and will enhance the entire culture of the organization," President and CEO Scott Cattanach said.

Millennium Bank employees get festive outside during an ice cream bar cart event in the bank's lobby.

Millennium Bank

Des Plaines, Illinois

Assets: $502.3 million

President and CEO: Nicholas Dizonno

No. of U.S. employees: 56

It is Millennium Bank's mission as a minority depository institution to provide financial services to minority, underserved or traditionally disadvantaged small business customers. The company is also committed to doing well by its employees. It recently expanded its health insurance options and increased the employer contribution to 80% for all employees and their families, as a way to help offset some of the premium costs.

The bank is also constantly updating its technology. It recently gave laptops to most of its back-office employees to make it easier to work remotely.

First Bank & Trust CEO and President Robert Petersen speaks at the 2024 Annual Employee Appreciation Banquet.

First Bank & Trust Co.

Duncan, Oklahoma

Assets: $876.7 million

President and CEO: Robert Petersen

No. of U.S. employees: 181

First Bank & Trust Co.'s recent growth, such as last month's assumption of the failed First National Bank of Lindsay's insured deposits, has driven the need to hire more employees. But many of the branches are located in smaller towns where the pool of job applicants is smaller. To draw more candidates, the bank increased pay for certain jobs, reduced the costs of benefits without compromising service and increased its focus on being a fun place to work, which it highlights on social media.

First Bank & Trust also recently implemented a formal paid volunteer policy so that employees are paid for their volunteer activity. Staff follow a "dress for your day" dress code, which allows for more casual clothes for office days, and management hands out honey-glazed hams to all employees during the holiday season.

Helm Bank USA employees participate in the 2024 Lexus Corporate Run.

Helm Bank USA

Miami, Florida

Assets: $1 billion

President and CEO: Mark Crisp

No. of U.S. employees: 126

Helm Bank USA offers a range of benefits and other perks to keep employees happy. The bank hosts holiday parties, hands out Miami Heat and Miami Open tickets, hosts Thanksgiving raffles and permits early-release days. Helm recognizes and honors employees on a regular basis, and relies on employee feedback and input to build a collaborative culture.

As part of its "Get Fit Challenge," it provides free fitness evaluations by a professional, weekly snacks, weekly lunch-and-learn sessions, a custom Yeti bottle and cash rewards for employees to place first, second and third in the competition.

Commercial Bank of California employees get together for a photo.

Commercial Bank of California

Irvine, California

Assets: $2.5 billion

Chair, president and CEO: Ash Patel

No. of U.S. employees: 229

Commercial Bank of California abides by a "people over profits" mentality, which plays out among its workforce. Its goal is to "promote life wealth" for employees and clients, and it strives to be a "lifelong employer" to the roster of individuals on its payroll, the bank said.

The company, whose parent company agreed in May to acquire Bay Community Bancorp in Oakland, provides eight "passion and purpose" days each year to employees, and it also gives as many as three paid days per year for employees to participate in the bank's Community Reinvestment Act-related initiatives.

Prime Meridian Bank's grill masters work together to feed hundreds of clients, friends and co-workers during the bank's annual appreciation events.

Prime Meridian Bank

Tallahassee, Florida

Assets: $893.3 million

Vice chair, president and CEO: Sammie Dixon Jr.

No. of U.S. employees: 118

"Fiscal year 2023 was challenging for all banks," said Sammie Dixon Jr., the vice chair, president and CEO of Prime Meridian Bank. "Let's just say that a national liquidity shrinkage and a weak economic outlook made things interesting." Despite the industrywide challenges, Prime Meridian stayed focused on running its business, making system upgrades and introducing new efficiencies. Employees were treated to special events such as monthly appreciation days and bring-your-dog-to-work days.

"We have a team and a culture whose reputation for service is something clients recognize and appreciate," Dixon said. "And in times like these you better believe culture matters."

Bruning Bank's Sonny Manley and Jerry Catlett deliver Life Savers candy to show support and appreciation of local medical staff as part of National Nurses Week.

Bruning Bank

Bruning, Nebraska

Assets: $622 million

CEO: Fred Bruning

No. of U.S. employees: 84

Bruning Bank wants to be a place where employees feel empowered to make decisions and to carry out the company's mission, so that they're not only receiving a paycheck but also feeling a sense of personal fulfillment. The family and employee-owned community bank allows employees to work remotely, as needed or on a full-time basis, depending on individual needs. Its "Pay It Forward" program allows each employee to donate $250 to a local charity or family in need. And in an effort to be more transparent, the company recently started making meeting minutes available to everyone.

Seamen's Bank team members participate in Homeless Prevention Council's Walk for Home fundraiser.

Seamen's Bank

Seamen’s Bank

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Assets: $440.2 million

President and CEO: Lori Meads

No. of U.S. employees: 71

Seamen's Bank strives to be a progressive and inclusive place to work, including for parents who continue to receive childcare benefits that cover 65% of daycare tuition. Still, the high cost of housing on Cape Cod has made it difficult for the community bank to attract and retain talent.

This year, Seamen's realigned its salary ranges to match the local economic climate and added signing bonuses and relocation stipends "to help sweeten the deals we were able to make with applicants," President and CEO Lori Meads said. "In the end, housing is still a critical issue on the Cape, but thinking outside the box" and engaging in practices used by larger organizations and by those in more rural areas "seems to be making progress," she said.

Employees at Heartland Bank's Geneva, Nebraska, branch show their support for a team member with a cancer diagnosis.

Heartland Bank

Geneva, Nebraska

Assets: $864 million

CEO: John Wilkins

No. of U.S. employees: 113

Heartland Bank, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, is always asking how it can make things better for its employees, customers and communities. It recently added a health savings account with investment options for employees who are enrolled in a high-deductible health plan and began making contributions up to $2,000 per year into employees' health savings accounts, CEO John Wilkins said. And it is planning to launch a leadership development program this year for new and current supervisors.

The bank completed the acquisition of the State Bank of Odell in Odell, Nebraska in February.

"Our team has done a tremendous job with all aspects of the acquisition, and we feel that after just a few months, the two new branches and new staff are functioning well in our culture with limited customer losses," Wilkins said.

First United Bank and Trust

First United Bank and Trust employees gather with President and CEO Jason Hawkins.

First United Bank and Trust

Madisonville, Kentucky

Assets: $554.3 million

President and CEO: Jason Hawkins

No. of U.S. employees: 100

First United Bank and Trust has not been immune to the impact of the bank failures of 2023, the higher interest rate environment and the subsequent pressure on net interest margin, liquidity and core growth. Amid those challenges, the bank has remained committed to supporting its employees, who in turn support the customers. Employees receive bonuses and merit increases, recognition on special days such as birthdays and anniversaries, and paid time off to volunteer in the community.

"Despite the many economic conditions impacting the financial landscape, our bank has persevered because of the diligence of our entire team of employees," President and CEO Jason Hawkins said.

Bank Independent team members celebrate the grand opening of their new downtown Huntsville, Alabama, sales office with a community block party.

Bank Independent

Sheffield, Alabama

Assets: $2.7 billion

CEO: Rick Wardlaw

No. of U.S. employees: 681

At Bank Independent, the results of a recent employee engagement survey showed that the company's internal communication wasn't as effective as it could be. So the leadership team went to work, adding it to the list of key initiatives in the bank's most recent strategic plan and creating a role that's solely focused on internal communication. The results so far: employees say they are feeling more engaged and informed, according to CEO Rick Wardlaw.

"We have a responsibility and have made a commitment to ensure that strategic information about our plans, our performance and our culture is received and understood by all team members," Wardlaw said.

The addition of a monthly call among bank leaders "has been especially helpful in equipping our leaders to cascade relevant and timely information to their teams," he said.

Halloween is eagerly anticipated by employees and customers of West Plains Bank and Trust Co. While nearly all employees dress up, many departments or entire floors of the bank work together to dress as characters from cartoons or TV shows.

West Plains Bank and Trust Co.

West Plains, Missouri

Assets: $666.9 million

President and CEO: David Gohn

No. of U.S. employees: 108

West Plains Bank and Trust Co.'s growth and commitment to culture recently spurred the need to hire a training manager, so the company drafted a training plan and went in search of someone inside the bank to fill the role. The intent is to provide consistent training for front-line personnel, with the ultimate goal of increasing customer satisfaction.

Meanwhile, the reporting structure for the human resources manager, who would oversee the training manager, was changed to report to CEO David Gohn, giving a direct, vertical reporting line to the CEO.

"This places intentional concentration on our effort to get the right culture fit at hire and strengthen employee culture during initial and ongoing training," Gohn said.

Climate First Bank Chairman, CEO and founder Ken Laroe speaks at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Climate First Bank

St. Petersburg, Florida

Assets: $668.2 million

Chair, CEO and founder: Ken LaRoe

No. of U.S. employees: 78

Climate First Bank, which launched in 2021, is a full-service bank whose mission is to do the right thing for the planet, people, community and shareholders. With a laser focus on environmental sustainability, it rewards employees with permanent pay increases for doing things such as using public transportation, composting at home, reading books about climate change and driving electric vehicles.

It offers perks such as 0% financing on new or used electric vehicles or hybrids, and this year it quadrupled the number of paid volunteer hours from eight to 32 per calendar year. Also this year, the company began offering 18 weeks of paid leave to new parents and rolled out an employee mortgage program. Next up: expanding its employee stock option grants and introducing an employee incentive checking program.

Marquette Savings Bank welcomes recent hires with a group luncheon hosted by the members of the C-suite.

Marquette Savings Bank

Erie, Pennsylvania

Assets: $1.2 billion

President and CEO: John Dill

No. of U.S. employees: 160

In a higher interest rate environment, the fight to retain deposits has been felt by many banks, including Marquette Savings Bank. When the company hasn't been able to match higher rates and loses a customer, "it's not just the branch people that feel that pain," President and CEO John Dill said. "Our goal of delivering exceptional care to our clients carries all the way to the back office."

Last year, bank leaders began hosting a quarterly call for the entire workforce. It's been a way to update employees on the bank's performance and address key challenges in the industry.

"When our employees hear a consistent message and reassurance from leadership, it goes a long way in keeping our employees focused and not worrying about things beyond their control," Dill said.

Signature Bank employees share holiday cheer at the White Elephant and Ugly Xmas Sweater employee party.

Signature Bank

Rosemont, Illinois

Assets: $2 billion

President and CEO: Michael O'Rourke

No. of U.S. employees: 106

In order to improve internal communication, Signature Bank near Chicago has been hard at work this year building a new employee intranet. A multidepartmental team made up of technology, marketing, human resources and other banking staff has been leading the project.

"We believe developing this private network will have a positive impact for our employees by reducing the amount of emails they receive, ensuring they have access to the most current and accurate information and facilities teamwork by providing collaborative tools and platforms to work together," President and CEO Michael O'Rourke said.

The site will also be a place for social interaction, feedback and recognition.

First National Bankers Bankshares staff celebrate an employee earning the National Check Professional certification.

First National Bankers Bankshares

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Assets: $969.1 million

President and CEO: Joseph Quinlan III

No. of U.S. employees: 160

Employee turnover increased at First National Bankers Bankshares during the pandemic, then subsided last year as the company regained full staffing. Now, however, it's focused on bench strength so that it can keep growing. So it bumped up employee referral incentives, expanded remote-work options where feasible and made attracting talent a more deliberate part of its culture, President and CEO Joseph Quinlan III said.

"I think our employees are taking greater ownership with helping us attract quality talent, as they know that ultimately having great people on the team will help us keep [the bank] a best place to work," he said.

Vista Bank's Metro Banking Center gathers at the yearly picnic.

Vista Bank

Dallas, Texas

Assets: $2.2 billion

President and CEO: John Steinmetz

No. of U.S. employees: 228

For Vista Bank, 2023 was a difficult year. The company's metro market president, Tony Stephenson, died suddenly and unexpectedly in March. The same week, the failure of Silicon Valley Bank kicked off weeks of deposit-run fears across the industry. Vista employees responded by calling clients and communicating the safety and soundness of the bank.

"I could not have been prouder of our team for the true professionalism they showed despite the shock and grief of just having lost Tony," President and CEO John Steinmetz said.

Vista also had several significant projects, such as closing an acquisition; expanding into Palm Beach County, Florida; converting its core banking platform and launching a banking and financial literacy center in South Dallas.

"While we may have looked like ducks paddling madly under the water, each milestone was executed seamlessly," Steinmetz said. "This team is literally the best in the business."

Citizens Bank's 100-year journey is marked by extraordinary employees, who celebrate the bank's centennial and incredible history.

Citizens Bank of West Virginia

Elkins, West Virginia

Assets: $681.5 million

President and CEO: Nathaniel Bonnell

No. of U.S. employees: 92

Citizens Bank of West Virginia strives to work the "Citizens Gold Standard Way," a strategy that's built around providing employees with tools, training and empowerment to do the right thing for customers. The 100-year-old bank's "Gold Mining" program encourages employees to submit ideas to improve customer service, product delivery and efficiency, and then gives cash awards to those whose ideas are implemented. Employees also gather on President's Day in February, when branches are closed, to attend a one-day training and team-building session that concludes with cash bonuses.

Employees of Kentucky Farmers Bank volunteer at a local school for "Reality Day."

Kentucky Farmers Bank

Ashland, Kentucky

Assets: $277.8 million

Chair and CEO: April Perry

No. of U.S. employees: 79

Kentucky Farmers Bank has taken several steps to improve the employee experience. It recently began a new hire onboarding program, added employer-funded short-term disability insurance and expanded paid maternity leave. That's on top of benefits such as tuition assistance, free flu shots and a fitness program that offers monetary rewards for weight loss and tobacco cessation as well as financial assistance to pay for gym memberships. Feedback from employee surveys often includes comments about the bank's family-like atmosphere.

PCBB's winter get-together provides an opportunity to connect with remote colleagues, unwind and strengthen connections. This group gathers around the fire pit for s'mores and socializing.

PCBB

PCBB (Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bank)

Walnut Creek, California

Assets: $1.2 billion

Executive chair and CEO: Curt Hecker

No. of U.S. employees: 113

A change in CEOs at PCBB last year spurred an evaluation of the correspondent bank's culture. Leading a workforce that is 100% remote, new CEO Curt Hecker rolled out an engagement survey to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses. Changes ensued, such as adding 401(k) matching, formalizing the bank's performance review process and implementing "Buzz Break," a 30-minute virtual social event where employees are put into groups of two or three and given the opportunity to meet and catch up.

"I have a vision of rebuilding and fortifying our company culture, particularly in a remote work environment," Hecker said. "As CEO, I have prioritized visibility and frequent communication with our senior leaders, as well as the entire company."

A Top Golf outing for CS Bank workers.

CS Bank

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Assets: $574.1 million

CEO: Charlie Cross

No. of U.S. employees: 104

At CS Bank, the first person that a new employee meets during the onboarding process is CEO Charlie Cross. It's part of the community bank's focus on culture. The work environment includes free exercise classes in person and online, with the chance to win monetary prizes for attendance, and daily shoutouts from the bank's leaders for jobs well done. Cross hosts company events at his house for employees and their families, and the bank offers flexibility in the form of hybrid-work opportunities.

NebraskaLand Bank team members bring the heat at a soup cook-off before the start of a festive holiday parade.

NebraskaLand Bank

North Platte, Nebraska

Assets: $980.3 million

President and CEO: Michael Jacobson

No. of U.S. employees: 94

NebraskaLand Bank is in the midst of developing several programs geared toward employees. Like many banks, it sometimes finds it hard to fill open jobs, so the bank is developing an employee referral program that would give employees one additional vacation day if the individual they referred for a job gets hired and completes six months of employment in good standing.

Additionally, it is introducing additional vacation days to employees who have worked for the bank for 20 years and planning cross-departmental training sessions to help employees better understand the different roles and responsibilities across the bank.

"These initiatives collectively reflect our ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, while also enhancing employee wellbeing and professional development opportunities," President and CEO Michael Jacobson said.

Employees from Paragon Bank volunteer for Habitat for Humanity in Dekalb County, Georgia.

Paragon Bank

Memphis, Tennessee

Assets: $774.8 million

President and CEO: Robert Shaw Jr.

No. of U.S. employees: 120

At Paragon Bank, the view is that happy employees will translate into happy customers, board members and communities. A community bank that operates in three states, Paragon recognizes and celebrates employees for outstanding service and performance. In the past year, it has added perks such as an onsite valet for car service and dry cleaning, and increased the amount it reimburses employees to pay for college courses.

First Federal Savings & Loan Association had a Ladies Christmas Paint Party.

First Federal Savings & Loan Association

Pascagoula, Mississippi

Assets:$371.5 million

President and CEO: Randall Haarala

No. of U.S. employees: 52

First Federal Savings & Loan Association boasts a low employee turnover rate and high employee satisfaction. The bank, which underwent a leadership change earlier this year when Randall Haarala took over as CEO, believes that a good work environment is key to providing good customer service. Some ways that First Federal treats its employees: semi-annual bonuses and flexible time off for emergencies and family events.

American Riviera Bank employees participate in the 2024 Alpha Resource Center Plane Pull.

American Riviera

American Riviera Bank

Santa Barbara, California

Assets: $1.3 billion

President and CEO: Jeff DeVine

No. of U.S. employees: 134

At American Riviera Bank, employees get the benefit of laying out a comprehensive career path to help guide their next steps with the company. Managers must establish a development plan for each of their employees and progress is monitored by the community bank's human resources department. In addition, the bank has introduced a structured remote-work process, added wellness days to the paid time-off program and launched a new group coaching concept to assist managers in leading their teams.

It also hired a consultant to overhaul its leadership development program and continues to invite new employees to participate in the Pacific Coast Banking School as part of their career development.

Employees of Peoples Bank (Texas) provided breakfast for a Fellowship Christian Athletes fundraiser. Employees enjoyed visiting with customers and giving back to the community.

Peoples Bank (Texas)

Lubbock, Texas

Assets: $1.1 billion

Chair and CEO: Larry Allen

No. of U.S. employees: 163

The employees of Peoples Bank in Texas take pride in being "prayer warriors" for one another, often meeting in the lobby to pray for an employee who has lost a loved one or received a difficult diagnosis. Each morning, Chair and CEO Larry Allen greets every employee by name, and on their birthdays, they receive a call from him. The bank's 401(k) stock option plan allows employees to invest in their employer, and the bank matches up to 4% of employees' contributions.

In the past year, Peoples Bank launched the "Legacy of Leadership" training program for 12 of its "brightest and youngest future leaders," Allen said. The program is made up of a diverse group of five women and seven men. "The plan is to continue this program on an annual basis as we identify future rock stars," he said.

Employees at Montecito Bank & Trust participate in a Summit for Danny hike.

Montecito Bank & Trust

Santa Barbara, California

Assets: $2.1 billion

Chair and CEO: Janet Garufis

No. of U.S. employees: 268

"Always do the right thing, even when no one is watching" is one of the mottos that Montecito Bank & Trust tries to instill in the workplace. In turn, the bank tries to do the right thing for its employees, such as providing annual bonuses, remote-work options, emergency relief pay for crises and paid early dismissals for employees to attend corporate meetings and other bank events.

Last year, Montecito rolled out a new staffing model for its branches whereby branch managers can advocate for additional staffing based on data. The bank draws more employees on an as-needed basis from a pool of part-time workers.

"It allows the branches a level of staffing flexibility [and it] allows Montecito Bank & Trust to manage its [personnel] expense in a way that doesn't impact the customer experience," Chair and CEO Janet Garufis said.

The Oakworth Cycle Team competes in the Birmingham Corporate Challenge.

Oakworth Capital Bank

Birmingham, Alabama

Assets: $1.6 billion

Senior managing director, chair and CEO: Scott Reed

No. of U.S. employees: 156

Oakworth Capital Bank's culture is steeped in five core values driven by employees: the Golden Rule, character, work ethic, professionalism, and having an innovative and creative spirit. The company is "serious and intentional" about developing future leaders, according to CEO Scott Reed. The bank recently introduced a new initiative — the "Elevate Leadership Cohort" program — to identify and train future leaders, and it is also working on expanding mentorships to involve the entire leadership team.

The bank's existing new-associate mentor program runs for four months and pairs each new hire with a mentor who helps the new employee get acclimated to the culture and ease into the new job. Oakworth grants restricted stock awards to every employee, regardless of their role within the organization.

First Bank Chicago employees at a volunteer event.

First Bank Chicago

Northbrook, Illinois

Assets: $1.9 billion

President and CEO: Eric Ephraim

No. of U.S. employees: 140

Employees at First Bank Chicago are immersed in a culture that's based on mutual respect and appreciation. New hires are welcomed with gifts and a chance to meet senior management. The onboarding program includes presentations by bank managers from across the company. There are a variety of learning and development opportunities as employees progress in their careers, and transparency is achieved through regular strategic and financial updates and various newsletters.

The company offers a generous total employee benefits package, including a 401(k) and profit-sharing plan with a $12,000 match, and a combination of hybrid work schedules and the ability to work from a satellite office that give employees flexibility as needed.

Allissa Kline

Staff Writer, American Banker

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