Michelle Bing
2017-2018 Young Bankers Division Chairman,
Senior Vice President/Commercial Banking, Bank3, Union City
Michelle Bing, a commercial lender at Bank3’s Union City office, was recently elected as the new Young Bankers Division Chairman at the 2017 Leadership Convention. Bing started in banking in 1995 as a part-time teller at Reelfoot Bank and eventually worked her way up to become the bank’s Senior Vice President. Born and raised in Obion County, Michelle and her husband, Eric, have an eight-year-old son, Luke.
Tell us about why you became a banker.
When Reelfoot Bank was expanding, I was privileged enough to have the opportunity to apply for a part-time teller job at the same time I was beginning college. I thought it would be a great experience and look good on my resume when I graduated. It turned into more than a resume filler. I am thankful today for the many opportunities I was given to work my way through the channels.
What advice would you give to individuals entering the industry today?
My advice to those coming into the industry would be to always have the drive to do more and learn as much as you can. Be proactive in your career. Take advantage of any training opportunities. Be a good listener. Build relationships with both your customers and fellow bankers. Relationships help take you places.
Across the country, there is a lot of talk about succession planning and a talent gap in the industry to fill the shoes of retiring executives. Do you see that in the industry and how is the Young Bankers Division addressing that concern?
This is certainly a concern I feel the Young Bankers Division helps with by sponsoring banking schools and networking opportunities. Day on the Hill and TBA’s legislative updates help young bankers understand the legislative process. The Southeastern Schools, Leadership Convention, and other networking events help grow the next generation so when the time comes, they will be ready to step up.
What is the best advice you’ve gotten, and how does it influence you today?
I have been fortunate enough to work with some great bankers who have provided me with lots of great advice. Some of my favorite pieces of advice are don’t take life too serious, be respectful to everyone, and don’t take anything for granted. We are fortunate to work in a great industry—enjoy the ride.
You joined Bank3 in 2016, one of the state’s only new banking ventures since the recession. What stands out to you from that experience?
What an exciting time! I have truly been blessed with this opportunity to work with some great bankers and to have the opportunity of being on the ground floor and watching something grow. From raising capital to closing our first loan, it’s a great journey that I am certainly excited to be a small part of. Being a part of this process is what captivated my interest. To have an opportunity to be a part of this type of venture in rural Northwest Tennessee in this day and time doesn’t come along too often.
Established in 1960, the Young Bankers Division of the TBA is one of the most well-established divisions of its kind in the country. What role do you see the Young Bankers Division having as the industry evolves?
The Division has been a great resource for me since 2005. I have seen it evolve into what is needed in the industry over those years. I believe this is no exception. The Division will continue to expand and provide education and networking opportunities to meet the needs of our Young Bankers in the years to come.
