Name:
Annie Ruch
Occupation:
Relationship Manager in the Kent Island and Anne Arundel County market
Schooling Background:
St. Joseph's University, B.S. Psychology & Finance
Community Affiliations:
- Junior League of Annapolis, Gala Chair
- Annapolis/Anne Arundel Financial Education Coalition
- Maryland Banker's School
- Rebuilding Together Anne Arundel County Board Member
- Adkins Arboretum Board Member
- Junior Achievement Volunteer
- Anne Arundel Commercial & Industrial Association
How long have you worked at Shore United Bank?
Started on June 6, 2016
What does a typical day look like for you?
My days vary from day to day. I tend to use a time batch structure for my weeks so that I am in the office at least three days a week, and two days I am out meeting with clients, prospects, or Centers of Influence (COI). This allows me to sit down and get longer tasks done without being interrupted, and not be on the road all of the time, which can use a lot of time out of your day.
What interested you in Shore United Bank? How did you hear about us?
I was graduating from college, and looking for potential fields to move into that I could build a career out of. I had always been a Shore United Bank customer, and had a family friend who worked there. Upon interviewing for a Credit Analyst position, I was asked to work with them as a Management Trainee, which would offer the opportunity to see the entire banking environment.
Why did you decide to join the Management Trainee Program?
The Program offered me a well rounded view of how the Bank operated, in depth understanding of the commercial lending cycle, and gave me flexibility on how I wanted to shape my career. An additional bonus involved creating a strong network within the Bank that I could rely on to help answer questions, and increase my knowledge and understanding.
How long were you in the program?
16 months.
What are some highlights from the program?
The Program allows you to be flexible in your career. With two different paths, you have the ability to choose what your role within the Bank will become and develop. This program also gives you hands on experience in each department. As a tactile learner, it is important for me to participate in the process so that I can learn, and due to the extended periods in each of these departments, I was able to get an in-depth understanding of the roles. In addition, your voice is heard in how you would like to adjust the program. I originally was scheduled to spend 3 months as a Credit Analyst, and was able to request more time to give me more exposure to the Credit Analyst role. That knowledge is invaluable in my job as a Relationship Manager, and I am thankful I had the opportunity to participate in the hands on learning.
Would you recommend the Management Trainee Program to someone else?
Absolutely. Banking is not something most college students strive to be involved in, in part due to the misunderstanding behind the industry. I think there is a misconception that banking is outdated and will be replaced. If I had known that Commercial Lending would allow me the opportunity to utilize my communication skills and hunger for learning, I would have set my sights on this industry much earlier in school.
What do you enjoy most about working in the banking industry?
The impact that you can have in your direct community. It is an amazing feeling to go to a business that you helped grow with a loan or deposit relationship, and know that you are supporting local businesses. You also feel as though you have an opportunity to advocate for small businesses which most often get overlooked by larger institutions.
What is one word you would use to describe Shore United Bank?
Motivational. The leadership within the company recognize a desire to learn and grow, and will invest in you to help you cultivate those qualities.
Are you interested in our Management Trainee Program? Contact our Human Resources Department at careers@shbi.com.