First Security Bank & Trust

Congratulations to Abbi Parcher (left)! Saturday marked her 1-year milestone with First Security. Abbi works in the marketing department as an Advertising and Public Relations Specialist. In fact, most of our social media content and blog articles are written by her, so those of you reading this now should be familiar with her work! Pictured with Abbi is Marketing Manager Katelyn Schwery. Katelyn said, "I'm grateful for Abbi's contributions to our small department! We are able to accomplish a lot with her help, and I'm excited to see where her dedication to learning new things takes her. She also has a great sense of humor and that's been a fun addition. If you ever notice a clever post from us, that's all thanks to her." "I would like to congratulate Katelyn and HR on their superb hiring skills," said Abbi. "I'd also like to thank First Security for being my most long-term relationship."

This National Ag Week, we celebrate the hardworking farmers who feed the world and support our economy. At First Security, many of our employees help on or own their own farm in addition to their jobs in finance. These employees understand the long hours, tough decisions, and unpredictable challenges that come with farming, because they have firsthand experience. That experience helps us serve area farmers better. To all farmers - thank you for all you do! Enjoy these photos submitted by just a few of our employees.

Happy St. Patrick's Day from First Security! Our team— including those in Hampton, pictured here— is celebrating in style with plenty of green, a touch of gold, and even a rainbow (courtesy of Michelle— we love it! 🌈). Most importantly, we're sharing lots of smiles with our community. Wishing you a day filled with luck!

Welcome Hillary Cockrum! Hillary joins First Security as a Loan Assistant and brings previous banking experience with her. "With Hillary's prior banking experience, she will be able to hit the ground running here and will be an immediate asset to us," said Loan Assistant Supervisor Becky Kirchgatter. "Additionally, her strong work ethic will have a positive impact on our team, our customers, and our customers' projects. I feel fortunate she's chosen to be part of our team." We're happy to have you with us, Hillary! Read more about Hillary here: https://lnkd.in/g7dudnvS

Congratulations to Portfolio Manager Zach Mitchell on his recent promotion to Assistant Vice President! Zach joined First Security in 2023 with experience in agronomy sales and banking. He also holds a degree in agricultural business from Iowa State University and is a graduate of the IBA Ag Credit School. "Zach is a wonderful asset to the bank," said Chief Lending Officer Scott Smits. "He is very knowledgeable about banking and different software, and that's been instrumental in implementing new tools and processes for our department. Additionally, he's a great advocate for the community through his volunteerism and role as assistant coach for the Charles City High School football team." We're glad to have you, Zach!

We're proud to announce the promotion of Loan Operations Supervisor Chelle Schlader to Assistant Vice President! "Chelle is doing a wonderful job leading a great group of employees in the Loan Operations department and is very deserving of this promotion," said Chief Operating Officer Randy Hassman. "She's made it a priority to learn the responsibility of each employee she supervises -no small task, but one that has greatly strengthened her effectiveness as a leader." Check out our latest blog article to learn more about Chelle's background and all she does for First Security. https://lnkd.in/gq-hRTck

This Fraud Talk Friday, Amy and Selena discuss the common methods that scammers use when requesting money from their victims. By knowing these, you'll be able to spot the red flags when they arise. Take a look! https://lnkd.in/gskm6qUi

This Valentine's Day and Fraud Talk Friday, we want to warn you about romance scams. Scammers take advantage of their victims' loneliness and kindness in order to gain money and private information. Watch this video to learn more from Amy and Selena. https://lnkd.in/gGQKVa-m

Welcome, Ellen Teepe! Ellen, who has prior banking experience, recently joined us as a Service Center Specialist. "I strive to provide exceptional customer service as well as see how I can add to an already great Service Center team at First Security," said Ellen. AVP/Operations Manager Amy Wilson said, "Ellen's skills and experience are a huge asset to us. In the short time she's been here, she's proven to be a wonderful addition. We are excited to have her!" We're glad to have you with us, Ellen! Read more about Ellen here: https://lnkd.in/gEm-XJ53

Congratulations to Ramona Alden! She was recently promoted to Portfolio Manager within the ag/commercial lending department. In this role, Ramona will still be based out of Nora Springs. "We are excited to welcome Ramona to the Portfolio Manager team. She has been a valuable asset to both the bank and the Nora Springs location," said Portfolio Manager Supervisor Zach Mitchell. "We look forward to her continuing to serve the customers she has built strong relationships with through her previous role." Nice work Ramona! Click the link below to read more about Ramona and her new position. https://lnkd.in/guPdYE9E