Sept. 5, 2018

Dacotah Bank and First Premier Bank have made American Banker’s annual list of best places to work.

Sioux Falls-based First Premier ranked No. 71 and was recognized for its robust employee appreciation program. Two employees won new Chevrolet Camaros and $16,000 after a drawing during a staff meeting.

For fun, First Premier break rooms include selfie stations with cardboard cutouts and props. Employees who post their selfies to social media can win $50 in credit to the corporate store.

First Premier Bank president Dave Rozenboom said the magazine’s designation reflects the organization’s corporate culture and its quality employees.

“We continually work hard to build a culture that supports, encourages and empowers our employees,” Rozenboom said. “Our Premier culture has led to great successes for our organization, and we always celebrate those successes with our associates. It’s one of the things that makes working here fun, and it’s great to be recognized by one of our industry’s most respected publications.”

The ranking process includes both employer- and employee-submitted information. American Banker evaluates the submissions and selects recipients based on workplace policies, practices, demographics and employee assessments.

Dacotah Bank ranked No. 49. It was recognized for reimbursing employees up to $300 for expenses such as gym memberships and home exercise equipment to encourage a more active lifestyle. Each employee also selects a charity for the bank to support with a $200 donation. An additional $300 can be donated if the employee serves on a board.

“Our annual rankings recognize financial institutions that are committed to investing in employees’ job satisfaction, career development and personal growth, said Marc Hochstein, editor-in-chief of American Banker. “One of the most valuable assets for any organization is the team of people it employs, and banks are no exception.”