As a branch manager I am in charge of running my own branch, including management, monitoring, coaching, working directly with customers and proactively developing new business relationships within the local community. In my branch, we are a team of eight people. We are a great team with a good atmosphere. All the changes we have gone through during the past year have taught us to work together to ensure we hit the goals we set out for ourselves.
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John Paul Collins, 29 years |
Qualifications: Diploma in Business Studies, QFA, Diploma in Financial Services
Job title: Branch Manager
Location: Malahide, National Irish Bank
Years of service: 8 years |
A stronger bank
After Danske Bank's acquisition of National Irish Bank, we became a stronger bank. The new computer programmes and systems made our work more efficient. Together with the new products, they made us a serious player in the Irish markets and for the first time, we were not seen as a small bank around the corner. It also brought us new career opportunities. Danske Bank’s career paths are clear and it is easy to see the opportunities you have. In addition, the reward system (bonus system) is working well and motivating.
More structure and ownership
Danske Bank brought more structure into our work. Clear goals and direction made my work much easier. I know what to do and where I get the needed support. Before, we spent much time on double-checking. Several roadblocks and barriers had a negative effect on staff’s motivation. We were not given responsibility, which resulted in a lack of ownership and trust. The new organisation and management structure gives us an opportunity to be more involved. I feel strong ownership of my work: I feel that it is my business and my staff. It makes such a difference both professionally and personally. I am much happier in my job than before.
I have grown with the bank
I have always been interested in finances so choosing a career in a bank was a natural option. Eight years ago when I joined the bank, National Irish Bank was a small bank. Today, I am proud to say that I work for NIB, but that was not the case eight years ago. I have grown together with the bank. I started as a cashier and was later promoted to a private banker. After working as an Acting Executive Banking Manager and Executive Banking Manager, I was appointed a Branch Manager a year ago. I have worked in many different branch offices, but until now I have stayed in the same region. I am ambitious and have been actively looking for new opportunities. This has been appreciated by my superiors and I have been offered excellent chances to develop and challenge myself.
Challenges and opportunities
Becoming part of the Danske Bank Group has been challenging and at the same time rewarding. We are expected to work hard to grow market shares and to keep up with the developments. However, the clear and transparent structure makes it easy to find the person who can help you if you have a problem or need support. There is more interaction with the core people today and you are only a phone call away from them. My first impression of Danske Bank was positive; it was clear that they really wanted this integration to work out. I think it has been successful. We have more sustainability, visibility and confidence in the future.