Jan. 31, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by Central Bank.

A role that involves working with both people and numbers proved the right fit for this up-and-coming business banker.

Haliee Pieper recently became vice president, commercial banking officer at Central Bank in Sioux Falls – the next step in a career that has brought the Watertown native to an industry she loves.

Pieper graduated from Boise State University in four years with both a bachelor’s degree in business and an MBA. Outside of the classroom, she was just as impressive on the golf course, where the student-athlete competed on the women’s team.

“We’re thrilled to add Haliee to our business banking team,” said Hank McCall, market president for Central Bank in Sioux Falls. “She’s a dynamic personality with analytical skills that make her an exceptional partner for our business customers.”

We sat down with Pieper to learn more about her career and new role at Central Bank.

What caused you to initially pursue a career in banking?

I have always had an interest in finance, and I knew banking would provide me with a diverse range of opportunities when it came to my career path. As an athlete, I have always liked a challenge, and banking often presents situations that require complex problem-solving and decision-making.

I started my career in banking as a credit analyst where I was able to learn and develop technical skills related to business banking. As a people person, I knew I wanted to make my way to the front line. In 2022, I made that transition and joined Hank McCall’s team as a business banker at a small community bank in Sioux Falls.

The business banking role allows me to work face to face with customers on a regular basis, while still tapping into the analytical and numbers work that I enjoy. Based on the work we have done together in the past, I knew that Hank and I make an effective team. I appreciate his leadership style, and he is someone that I want to continue learning from, so I was excited to join him at Central Bank in November 2023.

What are your initial impressions of Central Bank?

Central Bank is invested in the community – it’s really why we do what we do. I appreciate the accessibility of our leadership team. Their responsiveness and willingness to be involved in the day to day allows us to advocate for our customers and our community with the people who ultimately make the decisions.

What’s your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part of my role is the relationships I have been able to build with my customers. I enjoy working closely with business owners to understand and meet their needs. I am able to draw on my experience and put myself in position to be an adviser on their side of the table. Especially with the uncertain economic times we have seen recently, I appreciate being at a community bank where decisions are made locally by people who have a continued focus on serving the needs of our community.

How do you enjoy connecting in the broader community?

I like to attend community events that give me a chance to meet new people, learn about their experiences and build relationships. I especially enjoy opportunities to connect with other women in business. I believe that my skill set and experience is unique, and I am always looking for ways to get involved and provide support to other women and women-owned businesses both personally and professionally.

Does your career now leave much time for golf?

I am always willing to take a meeting on the golf course, and I am often invited to play on bank scramble teams in the summer.

If business leaders would like to connect with you, what’s the best way to do that?

I’m based at Central Bank’s office at 4900 S. Western Ave., or you can email me at [email protected].