Job as teller leads to bank leadership role

Oct. 30, 2018

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Sarah McGuire, director of operations at American Bank & Trust.

Name: Sarah McGuire

Age: 34

Hometown: Webster

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Growing up in a small town, I was ready for more adventure and moved to the big city with friends after high school and attended the South Dakota School of Massage Therapy. Later, I graduated from Colorado Technical University and made my way into the banking industry.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

My husband, Scott, was born and raised in Sioux Falls, and we enjoy calling Sioux Falls our home. Friends, family and work keep us rooted here, and we have no reason to leave — except for somewhere a little warmer maybe! Sioux Falls has a great range of activities that keeps us busy, from restaurants, shops, gyms, local music and parks; in fact, one of my favorite areas in Sioux Falls is Good Earth State Park. We feel very connected to the community here, and it’s the perfect size for us.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Making improvements! I absolutely love the challenges operations sees on a daily basis. There are so many moving parts and different problems and solutions, and to be able to take those and turn it into something better for our internal or external customers is what makes me most passionate about my job. Every day I learn something new and try to make it better than it was before. Having the independence, flexibility and opportunity to make those changes for a community bank is very rewarding. And my co-workers, of course! It’s refreshing and so enjoyable to come to work each and every day when your entire work family are fun, kind to each other, passionate and driven.

How did you get connected to your industry?

While attending Colorado Technical University, I took a job as a teller and have been in banking ever since. A few years later, I took a job in operations and found my area of expertise. Over the years, I have met so many inspiring people in the banking industry in Sioux Falls and enjoy continuing to build those relationships. One leader in particular, Cheryl Moe, pushed me harder, believed in me and taught me more than I could imagine in a few short years, and that’s what I try to do as a leader now.

Describe American Bank & Trust in three words.

Community. Focused. Supportive.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

I would love to see an outdoor music venue similar to the Anthem in Sioux City.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I love animals, so anything that involves rescue is always at the top of my list. I also really enjoy the hands-on events and recently volunteered at Samaritan’s Feet and Feeding South Dakota. Both events are really eye-opening on how many children in our community benefit from these programs.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Living happily with my husband, Scott, and dog Charlie! Being more involved in an animal rescue while continuing to work hard and leading others at American Bank & Trust. Focus on staying true to who I am and my leadership style while continuing to improve in both my personal and professional life. Who knows, maybe I’ll really push myself outside my comfort zone and teach a yoga class at Form Fitness.

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Job as teller leads to bank leadership role

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Sarah McGuire, director of operations at American Bank & Trust.

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