Women in Business 2020: Persons Banking Company
A special advertising section championing our local women in business. In partnership with Cox Communications. Photo by Jessica Whitley.
Rachel Benton, Branch Manager and Security Officer
Karen French, Vice President and Head Retail Officer
Anita Harvey, Retail Banking Manager
Veronica Rodriguez, Assistant Branch Manager
877-753-9224
Forsyth | Kathleen | Perry
What is the mission of your business?
Our vision is to make Persons Banking Company the best bank in our markets by providing exceptional customer service both externally and internally; creating a welcoming team environment through training, communication and career advancement; and creating market value for our investors through profitability and growth.
What is the most gratifying part of your job?
Seeing the excitement in a newlywed couple after planning out their financial future or restoring the hope of an individual after finding a solution to their debts. —Veronica
How do you define success?
I define success by my team working together to achieve the goal of providing extraordinary customer service. Working with my team is such a pleasure and I am so proud when a customer recognizes our commitment to providing extraordinary customer service and taking the time to call or write to acknowledge one of my teammates. —Karen
I hope more women will:
Find their potential, break the mold and keep pushing. I think we are seeing more of this now. There have been so many changes in the traditional roles that women play. It is not necessarily “a man’s world” any longer. —Rachel
How could women better support each other?
By not passing judgement on one other for a decision you may not have made. Respect each other’s choices. —Anita
What has been the most challenging part of being a woman in business?
Gender/racial inequality and balancing responsibilities.Laws, cultures, religion and politics are built upon a patriarchal foundation. Women must work their way up in the masculine world while facing stigma and discrimination. Although laws and policies have attempted to create a favorable business environment for everyone, the actual changes have not yet been implemented. —Veronica
You might be surprised to know:
I graduated with my bachelor’s degree at the age of 54 and my MBA at the age of 57. I like being a student and it’s never too late to learn something new. —Karen
What was the best business advice you ever received?
“Growth never comes from our comfort zones.” It is so simple and yet so very true. I would not be where I am today had I not put myself in situations of learning and discomfort. —Rachel
I hope more women will:
Follow the career path they want and not what is expected of them. —Anita
