Retail Loans Manager, Melissa Bailey looks forward to Penny Bank’s next chapter

Retail Loans Manger at the St Vincent Co-operative Bank Limited/Penny Bank, Melissa Bailey says that being the longest serving employee at a bank that has reached an impressive milestone makes her ecstatic.

“I feel proud to be a part of the institution that has grown and adapted over 80 years,” Bailey told SEARCHLIGHT on Monday.

St Vincent Co-operative Bank Limited/Penny Bank is currently celebrating 80 years of operations in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) having opened its doors on February 1, 1945. At that time, a penny was all that was required to start an account.

Bailey began working at the Penny Bank, also known as Forde Bank, on August 3, 2003, and says since then the Bank has doubled its products offering, expanded (loans and savings), while also advancing technologically.

In her position as Retail Loans Manager Bailey heads a team that is responsible for personal loans.

“I monitor their performance, I review loan applications, I interact with customers. I ensure that risk is effectively managed. I also analyse the market trends,” she explained, while adding that her stint at the bank has seen technological advancement such as loan automation, customer-centric services such as mobile banking, and growth in the risk and compliance environment.

“The bank celebrating 80 years of operation represents a significant level of growth and adaption. I have witnessed the evolution of the bank for the last 22 years.

“I have a sense of gratitude. I am satisfied with my role in its success and I look forward to the bank’s next chapter,” Bailey told SEARCHLIGHT.

The bank currently has a staff of 41, and Bailey points out that the services are personalized to meet the needs of the customers.

“Our focus is on providing the best customer service. We are highly regulated, so we hold a high standard of financial transparency,” Bailey noted.

Persons wanting to join the institution can do so with EC$50, proof of address, and two pieces of identification.

The Bank’s mantra, “Service Beyond Your Expectation”, is reflected in its mission statement and implemented by a courteous, efficient and reliable staff.