MSB Employee Spotlight: Darlene Mark
If you don’t know already, we have amazing employees at Monson Savings Bank and we want you get to know them. The MSB Employee Spotlight is an ongoing series highlighting the achievements, hard work, fun details and individual traits that make Monson Savings Bank employees so great!
I am a mom, a wife, a banker, a dog lover and a nature enthusiast.
What is your role at Monson Savings Bank and how do you help your customers?
As Vice President, Commercial Lending Officer, I am responsible for providing our business customers with tailored lending solutions to assist them with meeting or exceeding their financial goals. I also work with other areas of the team to ensure we are meeting every need for every customer. Monson Savings Bank is a customer focused bank. We are always looking for ways we can help them and we are very responsive to our customers’ needs.
What do you like most about your position?
I enjoy dealing with the variety of business customers that I get to interact with. Every business is different and it’s exciting to learn about the history of the business, the ownership and intricacies of owning and operating different types of businesses in a variety of industries. I enjoy local, community banking, as it also enhances the prosperity and wellbeing of our local communities and economy.
How long have you been with Monson Savings Bank?
18 months
What do you like about Monson Savings Bank?
I love working with the Commercial Team and all teams of the bank. I love MSB’s commitment to our local economy. MSB has a great leadership team and they instill transparency throughout the organization. It really makes you feel like you are part of something really special - which we are! We all work together toward the same goals, providing financial services and exemplary customer service to our customers, assist with individual and business financial goals to help business and our communities prosper.
How do you feel connected to the local communities?
I grew up locally and feel very connected to the area and being able to assist local businesses because I have that connection. Monson Savings Bank is very generous in donating to our local area non-profits and employees of the bank are also very engaged in volunteering at local organizations that are near and dear to their heart.
How do you feel at the end of the day after helping customers?
I feel deeply satisfied that I was able to assist in helping a customer find a financial solution to fit their specific need. It really helps when you can connect with the customer and have an open dialogue with them. They really appreciate any feedback or suggestions that we can provide that will make their business and personal financial lives easier.
What are your roots?
I am a local. I was born and raised in Palmer, MA .
Tell us about your family or friends and what they mean to you.
My family means everything to me. I am thankful I’ve had this extra time to spend with them during the pandemic. There is a silver lining.
I am happily married to my husband and we have two teenage daughters and a golden Labrador retriever. It is extremely important to me that I am setting a good example for my daughters that hard work and determination pays off, as I have a successful and rewarding career as a banker. My friends rely upon me as their ‘personal banker’ for advice and suggestions, which I’m always happy to assist with.
What values are most important to you to uphold?
Honesty, hard work, accountability, patience, respect and understanding.
What are your hobbies?
Going for long walks, reading, boating, going to the beach, watching my daughters play sports and spending time with family and friends.
Favorite music?
Classic Rock, Top 40, 80’s hair bands!
Favorite meal?
Buffalo Chicken anything…..
Do you volunteer anywhere?
I am currently a Board Member and Corporator of the Ludlow Boys and Girls Club and a Board Member of the Ronald McDonald House, Springfield.