Spotlight on Success: Olivia Styons
TowneBank
Over the last ten years, Olivia has experienced career growth from a Teller to Branch Operations Manager to Instructor. Her career path began right out of college. She is currently working in Learning and Development as a Training Coordinator where she enjoys the rewards of supporting employees in their education and growth. “TowneBank has been the best employer. I can’t imagine working anywhere else!” As a local employer, TowneBank continues to support Olivia in her continued growth.
“Towne gives each office the resources to allocate toward their employee’s learning. I’ve always been actively encouraged by my various managers to take classes that are of interest to me. I am also part of our Management Development Academy which consists of CFTEA courses and other professional development training and mentoring over a sixteen-month period.”
“When I started at TowneBank in 2013, I had no prior banking experience as I came straight out of college. Foundational classes like Banking Today, Legal Foundations in Banking, Consumer Lending, and Commercial Lending really laid the groundwork for my understanding of the financial industry and made me excited that I chose banking as a career.”
Reflecting on her achievements, Olivia noted: “I am most proud of completing my first certificate in supervision. I’m excited to take the information I’ve learned into future management roles and opportunities.” What about others that haven’t taken a CFTEA course in a long time or, well, ever? “What are you waiting for? CFTEA offers a wide variety of topics and learning modalities. Pick one that interests you and sign up. Take the time to invest in yourself, you won’t regret it!”
One of CFTEA’s core values is always remaining flexible in an ever-changing business world. That flexibility has been key to Olivia’s continued success. “The ability to choose a course that fits my schedule makes learning accessible. I’ve taken both in-person and self-paced online classes and have enjoyed both styles. I’m finishing my online certificate now and as a new mom I appreciate that it is available for me at any time.”
What is her next educational step? “I’m graduating from our TowneBank Management Development Academy in July. It’s a 16-month program, and I’ve taken five CFTEA courses on banking and management topics throughout the program. I’m about to finish up my Modern Supervisor Certificate, which will be my final class prior to graduation. I’m also looking forward to exploring other management and leadership courses CFTEA offers.”
A huge congratulations to Olivia and her family on her little one! As an outstanding community employer, TowneBank highly invests in employee development. That makes a huge difference! A huge high-five to Olivia for her hard work and coming Academy graduation!!