Lender Spotlight with Jacob Bauer
Jacob Bauer has always been active in the community. Growing up in Durand, he appreciated that Security Financial Bank (SFB) is locally owned and invested in the community. That is what sparked his interest in joining the Commercial Lending Team at the bank.
"I appreciate how community-oriented SFB is and that is part of what led me to the organization three years ago," said Bauer, who now serves as a commercial relationship manager.
Bauer graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire with a finance degree. After graduation, he worked as a credit analyst at a community bank in Oshkosh. There he enjoyed commercial lending through a community-focused lens. Returning to his western Wisconsin roots, Jacob started at SFB as a credit analyst and grew into a relationship manager in a few short years.
"SFB values the team approach in what we do every day," Bauer explained. "From the Credit Team, to the loan processors, to the other lenders, everyone works hard to accomplish the same goal - helping our customers succeed."
Bauer says something SFB does well as a community bank is giving back to the markets they serve.
"I think people want to work with businesses that give back to their communities with donations, sponsorships, and helping to develop new growth in the area," said Bauer.
Bauer is an active member of Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley. He also recently served as a Big Brother for Big Brother Big Sisters of the Chippewa Valley and completed the Leadership Chippewa Falls program. All these organizations allow him to network with others in the area. So much so he received the Oustanding Community Involvement Award at this year's Young Professionals holiday party.
"When you network you realize how intertwined this community is," Bauer added. "You will see various connections come together and connect you to people to help.
"Hearing client's stories and journeys and then being a part of their success story is his favorite part of being a relationship manager.
In his down time, Bauer loves exploring the new businesses and attractions throughout the Chippewa Valley.
Connect with Jacob Bauer at jbauer@sfbank.com or 715-930-7880.
