Dec. 13, 2022

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Nancy Schempp, senior vice president of partner services and delivery at Pathward. She recently was named to American Banker’s list of Most Influential Women in Payments, Next. The list recognizes those younger than 40 who have demonstrated a strong talent for leadership and an expertise in their respective fields.

Name: Nancy Schempp

Age: 39

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

This is a particularly relevant question since both my husband and I work remotely, so we’re afforded a high degree of flexibility on where we live. Family, first – both my husband and I have a lot of family in town, and it’s nice to have that support system. Beyond that, there’s quite a few reasons: the tax structure, cost of living, accessibility to sports we enjoy –hockey! – to name a few.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

It’s hard for me to pick one thing. The combination of wickedly talented, smart and supportive co-workers in addition to a highly dynamic, relevant and challenging business keeps me motivated, learning and engaged.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I started in banking right out of college seeking something to bridge my anticipated yearlong gap before graduate school. I quickly changed my mind – and career path! That said, the Banking as a Service, or BaaS, industry is very different from traditional banking. To be honest, when I applied at Pathward – formerly known as MetaBank – I didn’t realize how distinct BaaS is compared to the more traditional banking I’d build my career around. I’m very grateful, though, as BaaS is such an exciting, forward-thinking industry that offers products and services to otherwise under- or unbanked individuals and businesses.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Dynamic, cooperative and creative.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

 I’m working on improving my green thumb. I recently planted an indoor herb garden in my office so am hoping to be able to grow some cooking herbs while I work!

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

I enjoy giving back to the community in ways where we can involve our kids and give back as a family. Last week, we volunteered at Sonia Sotomayor (Elementary) for Project Warm-Up. We’ve volunteered a few times with Habitat for Humanity, St. Francis House and Feeding South Dakota to name a few. I think creating value for the community as a family helps us stay grounded while also making a difference in small ways.

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

Trader Joe’s! I was in Rochester, Minnesota, recently and surprised to see they could get one and we can’t – but at least could get some shopping in!

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

I’d love to open up another indoor ice facility in town – preferably on the south side. Other communities in the Midwest have better offerings, and our family is highly engaged in the local hockey community. Brandon Valley, Harrisburg, Tea and other nearby communities don’t have access to indoor ice facilities other than to share the space we have with the Scheels IcePlex. Creating more space for new families to be introduced to sports that are so natural to our area I think would benefit youth across the community and state.